By Joseph Dumbula
The Lilongwe Magistrate’s Court has charged former Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) Chief Executive Officer Collins Magalasi under the Electronic and Cyber Security Act over allegations that he was involved in hacking the telephone number of President Peter Mutharika.
Magalasi is accused of working with Lovemore Chikoma to unlawfully gain access to the President’s phone number as well as those belonging to several senior government officials.
According to the prosecution, the alleged hacking activities took place between June and August 2026.
The court heard that other alleged targets included Homeland Security Minister Peter Mukhito, Deputy Homeland Security Minister Norman Chisale and Inspector General of Police Richard Luhanga.
The case has drawn attention because of the seniority of the officials allegedly targeted and the broader questions it raises about cybersecurity and the protection of government communications in Malawi.
Magalasi previously served as chief executive of MERA, the government agency responsible for regulating Malawi’s energy sector.
