Audit Reveals MBC Mismanaged MK 180 Million on State-Sponsored Propaganda Program

An internal investigation into the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) has uncovered that the national broadcaster’s outgoing Director General, George Kasakula, allegedly authorized the expenditure of MK 180 million in public funds to finance a political propaganda program titled Timvetse.

The program, which aired between April and August 2025, was reportedly designed to promote the interests of former President Lazarus Chakwera and the Malawi Congress Party (MCP). Kasakula, currently under suspension pending investigations into allegations of theft, fraud, and professional misconduct, is accused of bypassing financial safeguards to facilitate these payments.

Documents sourced from MBC reveal that Kasakula collaborated with former Director of Finance, Jack Kamwachale, and Financial Controller, Monica Likoswe Mlungama, to process the payments. The funds were distributed among several analysts and anchors associated with the program.

According to the records, the primary beneficiaries included Kelvin Mpekasambo who received the largest share of the disbursements, totaling MK 420,000 per episode for “Accommodation and Travel & Transport (T&T).” Humphrey Chimphando Mvula is recorded as receiving MK 60,000 per episode. George Kasakula, Blessings Cheleuka, Timothy Kateta, and Blessings Kanache listed as recipients of various other payments linked to the production.

While Timvetse was publicly presented as an analytical current affairs show, an audit of its content suggests a different focus. The program’s panelists and anchors reportedly dedicated the vast majority of airtime—estimated at 95 percent—to disparaging President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, his family, and senior officials within the now-governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).

The revelation comes at a time of heightened scrutiny for the national broadcaster. Authorities are currently reviewing the legality of using taxpayer-funded resources for partisan political attacks. Kasakula’s tenure is being closely examined to determine the full extent of the financial irregularities and whether criminal charges of fraud and abuse of office are warranted.

Management at MBC has yet to issue an official comment on the specific documents, citing the sensitivity of the ongoing disciplinary and legal processes.

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