Nankhumwa seeks clarity on Bill bribery claims

Leader of Opposition in Parliament Kondwani Nankhumwa says there is need for an investigation into allegations that some legislators received money to influence the passing of the Malawi Gaming Board and Lotteries Authority Bill.

He expressed the sentiments in Parliament in Lilongwe on Monday when the National Assembly resumed sitting for the Mid-Year Budget Review Meeting.

Nankhumwa sought the direction on the matter from Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara, stating that the allegations have soiled the image of Parliament.

He said reports making rounds on the social media have created an impression that members of Parliament (MPs) get paid to pass Bills.

“Names have been mentioned in such unconfirmed reports. Now I wanted to seek your guidance what is it that we can do to clear the name of Parliament,” said Nankhumwa.

Hara has since asked Nankhumwa to bring the issue in Parliament as a matter of urgency.

Speaking in an interview after Parliament adjourned, Nankhumwa said there is need to have the issue investigated in full to establish what happened.

He said he will table the issue within  the week as a matter of urgency under Parliamentary Standing Order 14.

Nankhumwa said his motion will also question if Parliament can investigate itself or if there will be need for other parties outside the House to investigate the matter.

Documents circulating on social media allege that Malawi Gaming Board and National Lotteries Authority officials paid about K43.4 million to some politicians to influence the passing of the Bill creating the authority.