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13/11/2024

Violence erupted today in Lilongwe against Opposition protesters who were due to carry out a vigil at Malawi Electoral Commission offices to force the resignation of MEC Chair Mtalimanja. The protestors and passersby were suddenly attacked by panga wielding youth.

Do you think this is the democracy we fought for? What are your thoughts on the violence in Lilongwe, let us know in the comments.

26/09/2024

𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗮𝘄𝗶 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗸𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗮 𝗔𝗱𝗱𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗘𝗺𝗽𝘁𝘆 𝗥𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝗮𝘁 𝗨𝗡 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗹𝘆

United Nations, New York — In a stark contrast to the typical pomp and circumstance of the United Nations General Assembly, Malawi President Lazarus Chakwera delivered his speech to a largely empty room today.

The unusual scene unfolded as President Chakwera took the podium to address the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly, only to find rows of vacant chairs where diplomats and leaders from around the world normally sit.

President Chakwera forged ahead with his remarks, focusing on issues of climate change, poverty reduction, and regional security. He emphasized Malawi's commitment to sustainable development and called for increased international cooperation to address global challenges.

The Malawi leader's speech was attended by a small contingent of diplomats, journalists, and UN staff, who listened intently to his remarks.

As the UN General Assembly continues through the week, leaders from around the world will continue to address pressing global issues across the globe.

19/09/2024

Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) has closed Area 25 SIMSO Filling Station for selling petrol mixed with water.

12/09/2024

Water tariffs up yet again.

As Malawians are still struggling to sustain their daily lives for basic needs. The country's water boards have adjusted water tariffs through the Ministry of Water and Sanitation. From 1 September 2024, consumers are paying an average of 10 percent more for the water they use.

The development has irked low-income earners who say they were already struggling to buy water at the old price and that the new rates will force most of them to draw water from unprotected sources such as shallow wells for household chores, putting themselves at risk of contracting waterborne diseases.

Ironically, when the country’s five water boards lobbied for an adjustment of water tariffs to ensure cost recovery in the production chain through the Water Services Association of Malawi (Wasama), Ministry of Water and Sanitation Principal Secretary Elias Chimulambe indicated that low-income earners would be spared.

Chimulambe: We have maintained

Yesterday, he insisted that they have been spared the hike. However, an August 30 Malawi Government Gazette notice announcing the review shows no exceptions.

The notice shows an average of 10 percent water increase by the utilities; namely, Blantyre Water Board (BWB), Lilongwe Water Board (LWB), Northern Region Water Board (NRWB), Central Region Water Board (CRWB) and Southern Region Water Board (SRWB).

BWB has adjusted from 60 tambala to 66 tambala per litre for water supplied from communal water points or kiosks and from K1.59 to K1.75 per litre for every 5 000 litres for use.

NRWB, on the other hand, has increased the price of water from communal water points from about K630 to K691 per cubic metre and from K1 830 to K2 009 per cubic metre for domestic purposes while LWB has adjusted from K3 456 to K3 802 per cubic metre for domestic purposes, all representing about 10 percent increase.

However, LWB maintained tariffs for communal water points.

10/09/2024

Waste management remains a big issue in the city of Lilongwe. I had a chance to go round within Area 25. I was shocked with what I saw.

Idle plots have been turned into dumping sites for diapers, all kinds of trash along streams and bridges. Sadly, even those with barbershops don't know how to treat hair.

What could be the problem or Is it because Area 25 is densely populated? I found out that the problem is mindset. Mindset change is the center of everything. We need to change the way we think for the betterment of Area 25, Lilongwe and Malawi at large.

28/08/2024

𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗮𝘄𝗶 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘆 𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁'𝘀 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗽 𝗔𝗺𝗶𝗱 𝗙𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗛𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘆

Sameer Suleman, a legislator from the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has called on President Lazarus Chakwera to cancel his upcoming trip to China amidst a heated debate over a proposed fuel price hike.

The controversy began when the Committee on Natural Resources and Climate Change recommended a fuel price increase, prompting a walkout by DPP members of Parliament in protest. The opposition party argued that the hike would disproportionately affect poor Malawians and accused the government of ignoring their concerns.

Suleman's demand for the President's trip cancellation comes as a further escalation of the tensions. The DPP legislator also called for the resignation of John Kapito, executive director of the Consumers Association of Malawi (CAMA), for allegedly supporting the fuel price increase.

The developments highlight the deepening political divisions in Malawi, with the fuel price hike proposal becoming a focal point for opposition to the government's economic policies.

28/08/2024

𝗘𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹: 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺,𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗮𝘄𝗶 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗽𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗔𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿

The recent controversy surrounding the Timvetse program on MBC TV has highlighted a disturbing trend of abuse of power and biased reporting. The program's blatant partisanship and attacks on the opposition have sparked widespread outrage, underscoring the need for urgent reform.

To prevent such abuses and ensure a free and fair media landscape, we propose the introduction of the MBC Opinion Programmes Restriction and Director General Independence Act, 2024. This bill will aim to regulate opinion programs, promote balanced broadcasting, and guarantee the independence of the MBC's Director General.

The proposed legislation would:

1. Restrict biased opinion programs that favor political parties or individuals.
2. Ensure diverse views and opinions are represented.
3. Establish a transparent complaints process.
4. Safeguard the Director General's independence and impartiality.

By passing this bill, Malawi can:

1. Protect its democracy from media manipulation.
2. Promote fact based reporting and balanced discourse.
3. Empower citizens with accurate information.

It's time for Malawi to take a stand against the abuse of the tax funded MBC to ensure the public is well informed by getting real news not opinions and a free press that serves the nation, not just those in power. We urge parliamentarians to introduce this bill and safeguard the integrity of the National Broadcaster.

https://youtu.be/e3kGhAE8WBk?si=LGySjGZEm_sK2ydr

27/08/2024

𝗨𝗧𝗠 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘆 𝗗𝗿𝗮𝘄𝘀 𝗮 𝗟𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝘁'𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗼𝘆𝗮𝗹𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗧𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱

Lilongwe, Malawi - In a bold statement, Patricia Kaliati, senior member of the United Transformation Movement (UTM) party, has declared the party's complete independence from any other political entity. This move comes as a response to the recent power struggles and perceived betrayals within the party.

Kaliati's words were clear: "I don't want to see UTM supporters being involved in government activities wearing UTM party attire." This directive aims to prevent any further blurring of lines between UTM and other parties, particularly the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP).

The declaration is seen as a test of loyalty for UTM members, especially those who have been cozying up to the MCP. Michael Usi, the controversially appointed Vice President, is among those whose allegiance is being questioned.

26/08/2024

𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗮𝘄𝗶'𝘀 𝗠𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻, 𝗔 𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆

Malawi is set to host a series of vibrant music festivals in between now and December 2024, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage and artistic talent. These festivals promise an unforgettable experience for music lovers and tourists alike.

Illusionz Beach Festival

- Dates: August 30 to September 1, 2024
- Location: Mangochi
- Highlights: This festival focuses on electronic music and visual arts, featuring both local and international DJs and artists. It promises captivating performances from renowned musicians, including South African Amapiano superstars Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa. Besides the music, attendees can enjoy a variety of beachside activities such as water sports, beach soccer, volleyball, and more.

Lake of Stars

- Dates: September 6 to 8, 2024
- Location: Nkhotakota
- Highlights: This festival is renowned for its eclectic mix of music, bringing together artists from various genres and backgrounds. It's a perfect blend of music, art, and the stunning natural beauty of Lake Malawi.

Blantyre Arts Festival

- Dates: October 5 to 7, 2024
- Location: Blantyre
- Highlights: This festival celebrates various forms of art, including music, dance, theatre, and visual arts.

UMP Festival

- Dates: October 25 to 28, 2024
- Location: Cape Maclear, Mangochi
- Highlights: Known for its diverse line-up, the UMP Festival blends local and international acts across various art forms, including music, spoken word, theatre, fine arts, and dance. Headlined by South Africa-based Malawian musician Onesimus, the festival will also feature performances by artists from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Zambia, and more. It celebrates the rise of genres like amapiano.

Tumaini Festival

- Dates: November 2 to 4, 2024
- Location: Dzaleka Refugee Camp
- Highlights: This festival promotes cultural exchange and unity through music, dance, and art.

Sand Music Festival

- Status: Postponed
- Reason: The Sand Music Festival, originally scheduled for October 27 to 29, 2024, at Sunbird Livingstonia Beach, has been postponed due to the passing of its founder. This decision was made to honor his legacy and allow the community time to mourn and reflect.

These festivals not only provide entertainment but also drive tourism and create economic opportunities for local communities. They are a testament to the country's culture and its potential to become a major destination for music and art lovers.

26/08/2024

𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗸𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗮'𝘀 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝗯𝘁 𝗢𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹

In a recent revelation by The Investigator, it has come to light that President Lazarus Chakwera's frequent travels have cost Malawian taxpayers a staggering K4.5 billion in August and September 2024 alone. This expenditure, coupled with the administration's broader fiscal challenges, has raised serious concerns about the government's ability to control spending and manage public debt effectively.

The Cost of Travel

President Chakwera's penchant for international travel has been a point of contention. Critics argue that the funds spent on these trips could have been better allocated to critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The K4.5 billion spent on travel is a significant sum for a country grappling with economic hardships and high levels of poverty.

Rising Public Debt

When Chakwera took office in June 2020, Malawi's public debt stood at approximately K4.13 trillion. By December 2020, this figure had surged to K4.76 trillion, accounting for 54% of the country's GDP. Fast forward to September 2021, and the public debt had jumped to 69% of GDP. By 2023, Malawi's public debt had further escalated to 81.3% of GDP.

A Tale of Two Administrations

The comparison between Chakwera and Peter Mutharika's administrations highlights significant differences in fiscal management. When Mutharika left office, Malawi's public debt was more manageable, and the country's borrowing practices were considered sustainable. Under Mutharika, inflation rates were in single digits, and the economy showed signs of robust growth and stability.

Solutions

For Malawi to achieve sustainable economic growth, it is imperative that the government implements stringent expenditure controls including putting a stop to unnecessary travel by the President, Vice President and his administration and adopt prudent fiscal policies. Transparency and accountability in managing public funds will be crucial to restoring public trust and ensuring that resources are used effectively to benefit the nation. Citizens should use the Access to Information Act to request detailed expenditure reports on the President and Vice President's international and local travels to understand how their taxes are being used as a form of control and accountability.

As Malawi approaches the upcoming general elections in 2025 and Malawians continue to grapple with economic challenges, the need for decisive leadership and sound economic management becomes ever more critical. The lessons from past administrations should serve as a guide for voters to navigate the complex landscape of public finance and steer the country towards a more stable and prosperous future.

26/08/2024

𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗸𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗮'𝘀 𝟭 𝗠𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗝𝗼𝗯𝘀 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺

In 2022, President Lazarus Chakwera made a bold declaration that his administration had created nearly one million jobs in Malawi during the 2020/21 financial year. Fast forward to 2024, and this claim remains a topic of heated debate and scrutiny among Malawians and international observers.

The Initial Claim

Chakwera's assertion of creating 997,423 jobs was intended to highlight his government's efforts to combat unemployment. However, from the outset, critics questioned the accuracy and transparency of these figures. The skepticism was not without merit, given Malawi's economic challenges, including high inflation, limited infrastructure, and the need for substantial policy reforms.

A Closer Look

In the years since the claim was made, further analysis has cast doubt on the validity of the job creation numbers. Reports suggest that many of the jobs included in the count were temporary or short-term positions, some lasting only a few hours or days. This raises questions about the sustainability and long-term impact of these jobs on Malawi's economy.

Regional Comparisons

To put Chakwera's claim in context, it's useful to look at job creation efforts in neighboring countries during the same period. Tanzania, Rwanda, and South Africa faced their own challenges but adopted different strategies:

- Tanzania: Focused on sectors like agriculture and manufacturing, with initiatives such as the $54 million youth job creation project in the blue economy launched in 2023.

- Rwanda: Emphasized digital transformation and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), though specific job creation numbers remain elusive.

- South Africa: Struggled with significant job losses due to the pandemic but implemented public employment programs to aid recovery.

The Reality Check

Creating nearly one million jobs in a single year in Malawi would have required extraordinary measures and substantial investment. The World Bank and IMF have highlighted the immense challenges African economies face in job creation, noting that Africa needs about one million new jobs per month to keep up with its growing youth population. In this light, Chakwera's claim appears overly ambitious.

Moving Forward

As we reflect on Chakwera's 2020/21 job creation claim in 2024, it is clear that transparency and accountability in reporting employment figures are crucial. For Malawi to achieve sustainable job creation, significant investments in infrastructure, education, and policy reforms are essential. Bold declarations alone are not enough; they must be backed by concrete actions and realistic assessments.

The road to economic stability and job creation in Malawi is long and fraught with challenges. Only through honest and realistic efforts can the country hope to address its unemployment issues effectively.

23/08/2024

𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀 𝗛𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆, 𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗰𝗿𝗮𝘁𝘀 𝗡𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁

Lilongwe, Malawi - In a groundbreaking moment for American politics, the Democratic Party has officially nominated Kamala Harris as their candidate for President of the United States. The California senator becomes the first Black woman to ever receive a major party's presidential nomination.

A New Chapter in American Politics

Harris's nomination marks a significant milestone in the country's journey towards greater representation and diversity. Her candidacy has inspired millions of Americans, particularly women and minorities, to see themselves in the highest office in the land.

A Leader for the Times

With her strong track record on issues like healthcare, education, and criminal justice reform, Harris is well positioned to take on the challenges facing the United States. Her nomination is a testament to her leadership and vision for a more just and equitable society.

Global Implications

As Malawians, we watch this moment with great interest. The United States has long been a global leader, and the election of its president has far reaching implications for international relations, trade, and diplomacy. A President Harris would undoubtedly bring a new perspective to the world stage.

The Road Ahead

The campaign trail ahead will be long and challenging, but Harris has already proven herself to be a formidable candidate.

Photo: US Vice President and Democratic nominee for President, Kamala Harris

23/08/2024

𝗨𝗦 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗪𝗮𝗿𝗻𝘀 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗮𝘄𝗶 𝗼𝗳 𝗣𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗠𝗙 𝗙𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗔𝗺𝗶𝗱 𝗙𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗿𝗻𝘀

In a stark warning, the US Government has cautioned Malawi that it risks losing its Extended Credit Facility (ECF) with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) if it fails to address pressing fiscal policy issues. This announcement was made by Eric Meyer, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Africa and the Middle East at the US Department of Treasury, during a press briefing at the conclusion of his visit to Malawi.

Meyer expressed significant concerns over Malawi's "ballooning expenditures" at a time when the government is grappling with low revenue collection. He highlighted that the delayed full implementation of the Integrated Financial Management and Information System (IFMIS) has jeopardized Malawi's standing with the IMF.

"There have also been delays in reaching agreements on necessary debt restructuring with some of Malawi's international creditors. This has been further complicated by deals that Malawi is pursuing with some investors that could undermine Malawi's agreements with the IMF and bilateral creditors," Meyer stated.

The IMF's Extended Credit Facility is crucial for Malawi, providing much needed financial support to stabilize its economy.

During his visit, Meyer held meetings with key government officials, including ministers of foreign affairs and local government, the Reserve Bank governor, and officials at the Ministry of Finance. These discussions aimed to address the fiscal policy issues and explore potential solutions to keep Malawi on track with the IMF's program.

The IMF has previously emphasized the importance of macroeconomic stability and sustainable growth for Malawi. The ECF supported program aims to restore macroeconomic stability, build a foundation for inclusive and sustainable growth, and address weaknesses in governance.

The country's economic situation remains precarious, with the need for swift and decisive action to avoid losing critical international support. The government's ability to implement necessary reforms and secure agreements with international creditors will be pivotal in determining the country's economic future.

Photo: U.S. Department of the Treasury

22/08/2024

𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗚𝗘𝗗𝗬 𝗢𝗡 𝗞𝗔𝗦𝗨𝗡𝗚𝗨 𝗥𝗢𝗔𝗗 𝗔𝗦 𝟮𝟲 𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗛 𝗜𝗡 𝗗𝗘𝗩𝗔𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗥𝗢𝗔𝗗 𝗔𝗖𝗖𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗡𝗧

A catastrophic road accident occurred in the early hours of Thursday at Katondo Village near Santhe Trading Centre in Kasungu, claiming the lives of 26 individuals, including two children. The victims were traveling in a high-roof minibus, registration number MZ 11670, headed towards Lilongwe when the driver lost control and struck a pedal cyclist before colliding with an oncoming Tanzanian fuel tanker.

Fiery Inferno Engulfs Minibus

The impact of the collision caused the minibus to erupt in flames, tragically killing all 25 occupants on board. The driver, identified as Jack Phiri from Dedza, was among those who lost their lives in the blaze.

Government Assistance Promised

District Commissioner James Kanyangalazi has assured that the government will provide necessary support to the bereaved families through the Department of Disaster Management Affairs. "It's a sad day for us here in Kasungu and the nation at large that we have lost 26 people, two of whom are children," Kanyangalazi said.

Identification Process Proves Challenging

Hundreds have gathered at Kasungu District Hospital mortuary, where relatives are attempting to identify the bodies. However, the police have warned that the process will be difficult due to the severe burns sustained by most of the victims.

Tribute from Chief Mbelwa

Chief Mbelwa of Mbelwa District has expressed his deepest sorrow and condolences to the families of the victims. "We have learned with deep sorrow about the tragic road accident in Kasungu in which 26 people have been killed. Among the 26 were three young men from Edingeni, namely: Steve Ngwira, Kondwani Maseko Phiri, and Wellington Jere. We join the nation in conveying the message of condolence to the bereaved families and pray for God's comfort. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace."

Investigation Underway

The cause of the accident is currently under investigation by the authorities. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety measures to prevent such tragedies from occurring.

Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims during this difficult time.

19/08/2024

𝗗𝗣𝗣 𝗨𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗶𝗹𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗺

Blantyre, Malawi - The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has announced its new leadership team, marking a significant milestone in the party's efforts to revitalize its structures and prepare for the upcoming 2025 elections.

At its convention in Blantyre, the DPP elected a new Central Executive Committee (CEC) leadership team, led by former President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, who has been endorsed as the party's torchbearer for the 2025 elections.

The new leadership team includes:

VP East: Hon. Bright Msaka
VP North: Hon. Jappie Mhango
VP Centre: Hon. Alfred Gangata
VP South: Hon. Joseph Mwanamvekha
Secretary General: Peter Mukhito
National Director of Women: Hon. Mary Navicha
Treasurer General: Hon. Edgar Tembo
Director of Youth: Hon. Norman Chisale

The DPP has expressed confidence in its new leadership team, touting their leadership and strategic vision as crucial in guiding the party's direction and achieving its goals.

With this new team in place, the DPP is poised to make a strong push for power in the upcoming elections. The party's supporters have been urged to rally behind the new leadership team as they embark on this critical mission to shape the future of the DPP.

As the convention continues, all eyes will be on the DPP's new leadership team and their plans to revive the party's fortunes.

18/08/2024

𝗠𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗸𝗮 𝗘𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝘀 𝗗𝗣𝗣'𝘀 𝗧𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗯𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀

Blantyre, Malawi - In a move that has sent shockwaves through Malawi's political circles, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has endorsed former President Peter Mutharika as its presidential candidate for the 2025 elections.

At the party's convention, delegates overwhelmingly endorsed Mutharika as the torchbearer, paving the way for his return to active politics. The former President accepted the endorsement, officially throwing his hat into the ring for the upcoming polls.

Mutharika's acceptance speech was marked by his characteristic confidence, as he vowed to lead the party to victory and Malawians towards a "Return to Proven Leadership."

During his tenure from 2014 to 2020, Mutharika's administration achieved several key accomplishments, including:

Economic Growth and Stability:

GDP growth and significant reduction in inflation rates from 24% to single digits.

Infrastructure Development:

Construction and rehabilitation of roads, bridges, and public buildings, including the financing of the dual carriageway from Kanengo to Crossroads, the rehabilitation of M1 road from Lilongwe to Mzimba, Rumphi , construction of 200 secondary schools and the expansion of Kamuzu International Airport.

Agriculture and Food Security:

Implementation of policies to boost agricultural productivity and maintain food security through programs like FISP.

Energy Sector Improvements:

Construction of new power plants and connection of the Malawi-Mozambique power interconnector to stabilize and expand electricity access.

Education Sector Enhancements:

Investment in education infrastructure and increased access to higher education through the establishment of new universities and technical colleges.

Legal and Governance Reforms:

Strengthening of anti-corruption institutions and passage of legislation to improve public financial management and promote transparency and accountability.

Foreign Relations and Diplomacy:

Strengthening of diplomatic ties with neighboring countries and international organizations, including SADC and key development partners.

The endorsement has been seen as a strategic move by the DPP to capitalize on Mutharika's experience and popularity.

As the 2025 elections draw near, Mutharika's candidacy is expected to dominate the political discourse. His campaign promises and policies will be closely watched, as Malawians weigh their options for the country's future leadership.

The stage is now set for an exciting electoral contest, with Mutharika's name recognition and political savvy pitted against other contenders including the incumbent President Chakwera.

17/08/2024

𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗙𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗹𝗮𝗴𝘀

A recent decision by the Public Procurement and Disposal Authority (PPDA) to approve a 128 billion kwacha fuel procurement deal has sparked controversy and raised concerns about potential corruption. The deal, which involves a Lilongwe-based forex bureau Digital Fx (Malawi) Limited, has been criticized for its irregularities and lack of transparency.

This development comes as a stark reminder of the worsening corruption under the Chakwera government, which campaigned on a promise to tackle corruption and ensure transparency in public procurement. However, the opposite seems to be true, with numerous high profile cases of corruption and questionable deals making headlines in recent months.

The procurement process was conducted without competitive tendering, despite the fact that the PPDA Act of 2017 requires international competitive procurement rules for such deals. The National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) requested the Malawi Regulatory Authority (MERA) to approve the deal before the supplier had even submitted an expression of interest.

Analysts have pointed out that the supplier, allegedly a UAE company, will be paid through a local forex bureau, raising suspicions of potential fraud. Sources close to the deal claim that the MERA board was pressured by powerful government officials to approve the deal.

Despite these concerns, PPDA spokesperson Kate Kujaliwa confirmed that the request for final approval had been granted, citing the use of a restricted rendering procurement method. However, the PPDA Act of 2017 does not provide for procurement based solely on an offer from a supplier.

The deal has been criticized by the Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR), which has questioned the credibility of PPDA and the fairness of the procurement process. The CHRR has called for transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.

This latest controversy raises questions about the Chakwera government's commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring transparency. During their campaign, they promised to root out corruption and ensure that public funds are used efficiently. However, the opposite seems to be true, with corruption cases on the rise and questionable deals like this one becoming more frequent.

09/08/2024

𝗧𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗘 𝗔𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀: 𝗠𝗖𝗣 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗘𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗔𝗺𝗶𝗱𝘀𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘀

LILONGWE, MALAWI - AUGUST 9, 2024

The Malawi Congress Party (MCP), a key constituent of the increasingly fragile TONSE alliance, has concluded its convention elections amidst a backdrop of coalition disarray. The elections, which saw Catherine Gotani Hara and Richard Chimwendo Banda emerge as First Deputy President and Secretary General, respectively, underscore the MCP's efforts to recalibrate its strategic posture amidst the alliance's crumbling edifice.

The TONSE alliance, once hailed as a beacon of political unity, has been beset by a series of defections, including the high-profile departures of the UTM Party and Aford. These fissures have precipitated a crisis of confidence within the coalition, casting a pall of uncertainty over its electoral prospects.

Against this tumultuous backdrop, the MCP's convention elections assume heightened significance. Gotani Hara's appointment as First Deputy President, secured through 438 votes, is perceived as a strategic move to buttress the party's leadership and navigate the treacherous waters of coalition politics. Her experience and political acumen will be crucial in mitigating the fallout from the alliance's disintegration.

Chimwendo Banda's election as Secretary General, garnered through 670 votes, underscores his reputation as a seasoned political strategist. His tenure will be critical in steering the MCP through the alliance's crisis, while concurrently repositioning the party for the 2025 polls.

The MCP's convention elections have also yielded additional appointments, including Jean Sendeza as Director of Women Affairs, Jessy Kabwira as Publicity Secretary, and John Paul as Treasurer General. These developments collectively signify the party's concerted efforts to reinvigorate its organizational apparatus, thereby ensuring a cohesive and formidable presence in the face of coalition disarray.

As Malawi approaches the 2025 polls, the MCP's convention elections have precipitated a critical juncture, wherein the party's strategic reconfiguration will undoubtedly influence the electoral trajectory of the TONSE alliance. However, the alliance's fractures and the MCP's efforts to adapt may ultimately prove insufficient to arrest the coalition's downward spiral.

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WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THIS WOMAN'S ANALYSIS ON THE ISRAEL SAGA

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐤𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐚'𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐨𝐲 𝐣𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐲 𝐟𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 In a dramatic turn of events, angry Malawians raised their voices yesterday as President Chakwera's convoy made its way back from John Tembo's funeral in Dedza. The frustration in the air was palpable, echoing the widespread sentiment of the people. Malawians, tired of the relentless challenges, shouted their discontent. Fuel shortages, foreign exchange struggles, and the alarming collapse of the economy have fueled this wave of anger. The citizens, once hopeful for change, find themselves disillusioned and exasperated under the current leadership. The outcry today was a stark reminder of the pressing issues that grip our nation. Malawi, a country known for its resilience, now stands at a crossroads. The people demand solutions, transparency, and a way forward yet the President is absent. The echoes of their voices serve as a potent reminder that the time for change is now! #MalawiEconomicCrisis

Primary school teacher beaten by his own father for STEALING and selling his cattle! Can you believe it, is the father right in beating his son?

Human Rights activist Seodi White confronts neighbouring church over noise pollution in a residential area. What are your thoughts

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