Malawi ICT regulator allays witchcraft fears

by MAVHUTO BANDA
LILONGWE – IN an awkward and unprecedented turn of events, Malawi’s telecommunications regulator has become entangled in recurring allegations of witchcraft bedevilling the Southern African country.

This comes amid reports of people allegedly “stealing” men’s private parts for ritual purposes.

Some men have reported “losing” their genitals after coming into contact with other individuals.

At least seven people have reportedly been killed in mob justice attacks against alleged perpetrators, while more than 40 people have been arrested over the violence in Chikwawa and Nsanje in the Southern Region in recent days.

Authorities have dismissed the “genital disappearance” claims as false after medical examinations confirmed that all complainants still had their body parts intact and showed no abnormalities.

The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has intervened in the matter.

“We note with great concern the recent social media allegations regarding missing private parts linked to electronic communications,” it stated.

“MACRA reiterates that there is no scientific or technical evidence connecting mobile phones, network signals or digital communications to such incidents.”

The regulator urged the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and report any criminal matters to the Malawi Police Service.

“MACRA remains committed to ensuring safe, secure and reliable communications services for all Malawians and will continue working with relevant authorities to address public concerns and combat misinformation.”

Senior Superintendent Lael Chimtembo, spokesperson for the Malawi Police Service, said police had prepared case files and the suspects were expected to appear in court.

Similar “genital disappearance” allegations have previously been reported in neighbouring Tanzania and Zambia.

– CAJ News