POLICE in Nyimba District of Eastern Province have locked up a 30 year old ‘unwise man’ from the East for writing General Certificate of Education (GCE,) examinations on behalf of his 39 year old ‘slow’ cousin.
30 year old Alfred Mwale of Mwambezi Village, Chief Mwanjawanthu was caught red handed at Kalambakuwa Day Secondary School in Nyimba writing Mathematics Paper One, pretending to be his cousin, Eliot Banda.
The academically-challenged Banda, who is reportedly still struggling to grasp grade nine Civics in his late thirties, is now on the run, leaving his cousin to chew the bitter roots of their poorly thought out plan.
According to a report received by Nyimba Police on Wednesday at exactly 11:45 hours, the alert headteacher of Kalambakuwa Day noticed something suspicious about Mwale during the mathematics exam session and reported the matter.
It was then discovered that Mwale, the sacrificial lamb in this cousinly con, had already written two subjects, that is English and Civic Education while posing as academically disabled Banda.
The impersonation is believed to have started on July 24 and was only uncovered two weeks later, which was yesterday, just minutes before midday.
Unfortunately for Mwale, his efforts to help his cousin advance academically have now earned him a seat in police custody, while Banda who probably couldn’t define or spell “impersonation” if it came as an exam paper, remains at large.
Eastern Province police commissioner Robertson Mweemba confirmed the incident to Kalemba.
“The incidents occurred between 24th July 2025 at 08:00 hours and today 7th August 2025 at 11:35 hrs at Kalambakuwa Day Secondary School in Nyimba district.”
“The actual suspect is arrested and detained in Police custody while his principal offender, Eliot Banda is at large.You may wish to take note,” revealed the commissioner.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, August 8, 2025
