Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) have expressed growing frustration over what they describe as continued silence from the Executive on the controversial procurement processes at the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM), warning that the lack of clear communication is eroding public trust in governance systems.

Speaking during a press briefing in Lilongwe, Human Rights Consultative Committee chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba said the concerns raised by civil society are not targeted at any specific company or contract, but rather at safeguarding transparency, accountability, and the integrity of Malawi’s public procurement framework.

Mkwezalamba said the ongoing silence from government on allegations of executive interference in procurement decisions risks weakening confidence in key national institutions, particularly those tasked with managing public resources.

He further indicated that civil society organisations are now weighing possible legal action, including seeking judicial clarification on the extent to which political actors may be involved in procurement processes without undermining statutory procedures.

The CSOs also raised concern over developments within the Malawi Rural Electrification Programme (MAREP) Phase 9, where government is reportedly pursuing recovery of funds from contractors following alleged irregularities. They warned that such procurement lapses have direct consequences on service delivery and development outcomes.

According to the groups, inefficiencies and disputes in procurement processes ultimately affect ordinary Malawians who rely on such projects for access to electricity and broader socio-economic development.

The statement was jointly issued by the Human Rights Consultative Committee, the Human Rights Defenders Coalition, Citizens Alliance, and Malawi Black Economic Empowerment.