Ben Phiri takes ‘sabbatical leave’ from State House: To graduate for doctorate

Ben Phiri, President Peter Mutharika’s longest serving aide and right-hand man, has gone on a ‘sabbatical leave’ until the dust settles on his recent resignation scandal, Nyasa Times has established.

Mutharika has allowed Phiri to take a low profile two months after a resignation circus, until the allegations of his wrongful self- enrichment cools off.

There was a circus at State House last May when Mutharika rejected Phiri’s resignation amid reports that he was an instant billionaire through dubious means.

Now Nyasa Times understands that Phiri is on sabbatical leave running his personal businesses before he resumes his role that has caused much controversy in governing DPP camp for years.

He is also expected to graduate with a doctorate degree from a university in England.

While there was a belief within the party that Phiri was finally neutralized, Nyasa Times sources revealed how inseparable Mutharika and his ‘special aide’ are.

Presidental aide on communications Bright Malopa and former legal advisor to late president Bingu wa Mutharika, Z Allan Ntata are some of those believed to have been on forefront fighting for Phiri’s
removal.

On May 25 Phiri announced through the media that he resigned as Mutharika’s personal aide and chief advisor before his boss issued a rebuttal firmly insisting his ‘Special Aide’ remains at State House.

Phiri claimed he had resigned to “pave way for investigations” following accusations that he was accumulating unexplained wealth through wrongful ventures.

A letter which he wrote the Chief of Staff indicated his resignation will be  with effect from June 1, “2105.’’