The mayor of Malawi's commercial capital, Blantyre, has been arrested and is expected to appear in court on charges of theft by a public servant.

John Chikakwiya of the ruling United Democratic Front party allegedly asked a state-run company to give more than $3,000 to maintain city roads.

But the money was not used for that purpose and is now missing.

The arrest is viewed as a part of an anti-corruption campaign launched by President Bingu wa Mutharika.

But some of the members of his own party have accused the president of using the campaign as a way to settle political scores.

Mr Chikakwiya's lawyer, Noel Chalamanda, told correspondents he would apply for bail for his client.

The head of public prosecutions has said at least 10 senior members of the administration of former President Bakili Muluzi are under investigation in connection with the disappearance of government funds.