
The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has allegedly recruited former Airtel Malawi network engineers and technicians to interfere with the country’s telecommunications infrastructure.
Working alongside National Intelligence Technical Director Mr. Jekete and his team, these individuals are reportedly reconfiguring network systems and creating backdoor access points, raising concerns over potential surveillance and control of national communications.
Sources indicate that the team has already infiltrated the Malawi Telecommunications Limited (MTL) base station in Area 9, Lilongwe, a crucial hub for the nation’s connectivity. Similar operations have reportedly been carried out in Dedza, Golomoti, Monkey Bay, and Mangochi, with Phalombe and Zomba set to be targeted next, starting Saturday.
The operation is allegedly being led by Francis Mfune, a Lilongwe-based cybersecurity technician originally from Rumphi. It has been ongoing for two weeks and is expected to expand nationwide once Mfune receives the full MK 200 million payment he has demanded for the job.
Reports suggest that so far, MK 48 million has been paid through the National Intelligence budget, which is exempt from auditing under national security protocols,raising concerns over potential financial mismanagement.
During this period, Malawians have reportedly experienced network disruptions, which sources attribute to these covert activities. Additionally, there are claims that the MCP intends to exploit this operation to intercept communications on election day as part of a broader strategy.
These actions pose serious concerns regarding network security, privacy, and the integrity of Malawi’s telecommunications infrastructure and have implications on the country’s democracy.