Amid threats from discontented Immigration Department workers to shut down all borders in an industrial strike, the government, through the Secretary of Homeland Security, Steve Kayuni, issued a scathing statement. The Homeland Security Secretary declared the proposed strike illegal and akin to ‘mutiny’, warning that those who will have proceeded would face lengthy imprisonment. The disgruntled workers demanded the resignation of Immigration Chief General Kalumo, accusing him of incompetence.
The Shire Times reported yesterday that Kalumo had resigned. In a dramatic turn of events, a High Court judgement backed Chikhulupiliro Zidana, an Immigration Department employee, in his claim that Kalumo’s appointment was irregular.
The turmoil at the Immigration Department appears to be nearing resolution. If this conflict was not sabotage, then there is hope for restoration. However, if the employees are indeed attempting to undermine the government, swift and wise action is needed. Many qualified Malawians are ready to step in and surpass the notoriously corrupt services that have plagued the Immigration Department.