The Human Right Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has threatened to hold demonstrations on May 18, 2021 over a decision by the Public Appointments Committee (PAC)to reject the appointment of Martha Chizuma as Director General of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB).

President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera appointed Ombudsman Martha Chizuma as ACB Director General to replace Reyneck Matemba whose term of office expired in December last year.

Chizuma’s appointment was subjected to approval of parliament and today she was invited for interview by PAC led by Joyce Chitsulo.

After the interview it transpired that Chizuma has failed and this surprised many Malawians who placed their hope on the lady.

According to information at hand, nine voted for Chizuma while the other nine voted against her.

Those who voted against Chizuma gave her a one out of 25.

According to the members of the Committee, since the votes were tied at 9-9 there was supposed to be a tie-breaker, which Chairperson Joyce Chitsulo has failed to grant.

Ironically, the same Committee approved Chizuma as Ombudsman and in October last year renewed her contract on the basis of being competent.

Meanwhile HRDC has said it will hold demonstration on May 18, 2021.