No reason provided in removing Chief Immigration Officer: Medi reverts to Malawi Police duties

The removal of  Chief Immigration Officer Masauko Medi  has puzzled many people in the country, but the government has refused to give reasons for the move.

Medi has been Immigration chief for a year after being appointed from Police  to replace Hudson Mankhwala who  was moved from Immigration to head the Refugees Unit in the and Internal Security.Ministry of Home Affairs

But government has decided to redeploy Medi back to Police and  reverts to his rank of Senior Deputy Commissioner of Police at Police Headquarters in Lilongwe.

The move raised questions on why Medi has been removed with reports of underperforming by the department, loss of cash through damages and refunds.

Immigration department also reportedly failed to pass the passport availability litmus test under his charge.

Chief Secretary to Government George Mkondiwa  said there were no official reasons for the changes.

Home Affairs Minister Jean Kalirani and Information Minister Jappie Mhango, could also not give any reasons.

In a farewell message to Immigration Department, Medi said it pleased the government to redeploy him to the Malawi Police Services.

“Officers, it’s now official, it has pleased the government of Malawi to redeploy me to a Police Commissioner. Thanks for your support during my stay at immigration. I enjoyed every aspect of professional interaction. For any reporting, report to the Deputy Chief Immigration Officer. God bless Immigration. God bless Malawi,” reads the message.

Government spokesman said  Medi’s deputy automatically took over in acting capacity.