By Wongani MKandawire
Malawi’s main opposition party, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has issued a heartfelt plea for immediate action to save the country from crippling corruption, economic chaos, and electoral manipulation.
According to DPP Secretary General Hon. Peter Mukhito, the country is on the brink of collapse due to rampant corruption and mismanagement. “We can’t watch as our nation burns,” Mukhito said. “Millions face hunger, poverty, and despair while a privileged few loot our resources.”
The DPP’s concerns are echoed by analysts, who praise the party’s courage in speaking truth to power. “This isn’t politics as usual,” said Dr. George Chipumba. “The DPP is shining a light on Malawi’s real problems.” Chipumba noted that the country’s economic crisis, characterized by reckless borrowing and rising poverty, demands urgent attention.
Leader of the opposition, Dr. George Chaponda, has called for swift action, including the suspension and investigation of corrupt officials, probes into shady contracts and embezzlement, addressing food shortages, and ensuring fair elections. Chaponda emphasized that Malawians deserve better and demanded transparency, accountability, and justice.
The opposition party’s emotional appeal resonates with struggling Malawians. “We’re suffering while leaders enrich themselves,” said a concerned citizen. “Someone must stand up for us.” The DPP’s press conference at Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe drew attention to the plight of millions facing hunger due to the mismanaged Affordable Input Program.
Critics accuse the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) of turning a blind eye to corruption and electoral fraud. The DPP has urged international partners to pressure the government to restore accountability. As Malawi teeters on the edge, the world watches to see if its leaders will heed the warning.
In her part, Hon. Mary Navicha added that the clock is ticking for Malawi’s leaders to take action. “Serious warning to MEC officials who are working hard with MCP to exchange favors: You will not find peace. We have heard about the company you have hired with a bad reputation in managing elections. Our eyes are open and rigging will not happen.”
Hon. Dr. Jean Mathanga emphasized, “The right to vote is indeed enshrined in Malawi’s constitution, and no individual or entity, including the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), should deny citizens this fundamental right.”
Among the panelists was Member of Parliament for Nsanje Lalanje, Hon. Gladys Ganda, a well-known statistician, who noted that “MCP has caused banking sector stress. Research done by international NGOs shows that DPP was able to govern the country and put Malawi in the right direction.”
