BY ISHMAEL CHIMWAZA
E-Tech Systems has firmly rebutted claims suggesting that its contract to supply new passport systems to the Department of Immigration was influenced by its ties to President Lazarus Chakwera, his son Nick Chakwera, and the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP). CEO Raphael Msowoya clarified that the contract was awarded based on the company's capabilities and merits, particularly its capacity to provide a solution amidst security threats.
Recent speculation arose after a photo surfaced on social media showing Msowoya alongside MCP's vice presidential candidate Vitumbiko Mumba, Nick Chakwera, and a Serbian government official in Serbia. However, Msowoya clarified that the meeting was coincidental and unrelated to his business trip.
Msowoya emphasized that E-Tech Systems' role is to provide a passport issuance system, not to print passports directly. The company's equipment can produce 270 passports per hour, but the actual printing is conducted by the Department of Immigration.
Regarding the contract worth K896 million, Msowoya stressed that the price was justified by the deliverables, including the ability to issue passports within 21 days. He asserted that the contract amount was reasonable compared to international standards.
Msowoya defended E-Tech Systems' involvement in printing passports, explaining that the company operates as a solution integration firm. He highlighted that many companies claiming to be passport printers are actually integrators, purchasing printers from manufacturers and branding them as their own. E-Tech Systems procured printers directly from manufacturers on behalf of the Malawi Government.
In light of criticism, Msowoya urged Malawians to support local businesses and unite for the common good. He cautioned against being swayed by individuals seeking personal gain and emphasized the importance of national sovereignty in decision-making.
The statement from E-Tech Systems underscores the company's commitment to transparency and its contributions to addressing critical issues facing Malawi.
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