The head of Malawi’s Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Martha Chizuma, has been suspended over a leaked piece of audio in which she can allegedly be heard discussing official matters with a person not employed by her office.

The comments that she allegedly made could prejudice the trial of people charged with corruption.

The audio was leaked a year ago and at the time President Lazarus Chakwera said that it was recorded and circulated in a bid to force him to sack her.

Ms Chizuma remained in the job with the president’s backing and went ahead to indict several high-profile officials, including Vice-President Saulos Chilima and a cabinet minister, on various corruption-related charges. They have denied wrongdoing.

On Wednesday, her suspension was announced by the secretary to the cabinet, Colen Zamba, but some legal experts have questioned the protocol used.

President Chakwera’s office has not commented on the suspension.