Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-02-24 03:37:57
Malawi’s government is currently facing a passport issuance crisis, with President Lazarus Chakwera attributing the issue to a cyberattack. However, some doubts have been raised regarding the occurrence of such an attack.
President Chakwera informed parliament about the cyberattack, stating that it compromised the country’s security and that efforts were being made to identify and apprehend the attackers. He mentioned that the attackers were demanding a ransom in the millions, but his administration has made it clear that they will not pay it. According to Chakwera, the hackers have been able to disrupt the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services’ system from printing passports for the past three weeks. However, the immigration department had already halted passport printing earlier due to technical glitches that were announced in January.
The suspension of passport issuance has left numerous applicants stranded, prompting rights groups to threaten mass demonstrations if the situation is not resolved promptly. Chakwera labeled the incident a serious national security breach caused by what he referred to as digital mercenaries who hacked the passport printing system.
As the president, Chakwera has given the immigration department a three-week ultimatum to find a temporary solution and resume passport printing. He also made it clear that the government would not entertain ransom demands from hackers, emphasizing that the administration would not negotiate with criminals.
The passport issuance challenges in Malawi date back to 2021 when the government terminated its contract with Techno Brain, the supplier of Malawi’s passports since 2019. In 2023, the government had to re-engage Techno Brain on a temporary basis due to the inability to find a replacement. Nevertheless, production delays occurred multiple times because of material shortages or outstanding bills.
Sylvester Namiwa of the Center for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives expressed skepticism regarding Chakwera’s claims about the cyberattack. Namiwa urged the president to disclose more information about the hackers’ identities and the communication methods being used. There were reports suggesting that Techno Brain had intentionally shut down the system upon noticing suspicious activity by government agents and was now demanding compensation from the government.
Despite Chakwera’s assertions, some IT experts working with government agencies have refuted claims of demands for ransom by hackers. Security experts highlighted the need for Malawi’s government to enhance the security of its software to prevent future cyberattacks.
Malawi Information minister Moses Nkukuyu stated that the information presented by Chakwera in parliament came from experts within the immigration department. However, Immigration department spokesperson Wellington Chiponde did not respond to inquiries from VOA.
The situation remains unresolved, with concerns looming over the impact of the passport issuance crisis on Malawi’s citizens and the country’s security. The government’s response and actions moving forward will be closely monitored by various stakeholders to ensure a swift resolution to the ongoing challenges.
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