Former Budget Director to be tried in a K2.4 billion Cashgate

High court in Lilongwe has ruled that former budget director Paul Mphwiyo and 18 others have a case to answer in 2.4 billion kwacha cash gate

Judge Esmie Chombo said the court had given that ruling based on evidence provided by the state.
In his arguments one of the lawyers of the accused Andy Kaonga complained to the court about lack of comprehensive analysis of the submission in the ruling.

Kaonga asked for a stay of the proceedings saying the Supreme Court of Appeal should rule whether High court is fit to handle the matter adding there is need to wait for 60 days for disposal off the matter.

However, director of public prosecutions Mary Kachale said a stay is a delay tactic, the ruling was fair to everyone and all matters in court should be handled concurrently.

She said the court had given the accused persons 20 days to prepare and bring their defence to the charges brought against them.