Nthanda Times

Blessings Tambala

  • Constituents condemn DPP’s move to impose candidate, protest disenfranchisement of aspirant legislator with albinism

    Former governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has come under heavy criticism for its alleged attack and discrimination against a person with albinism – Alex Machila – who intends to contest for a parliamentary seat in Salima South Constituency.

    Albinism is a genetic condition that occurs in people of all races and in all parts of the world. Malawi has over 14, 000 persons with albinism spread in all the districts of the country.

    Due to their skin condition, they are subjected discrimination, stigmatisation, persecution and ridicule by the communities in which they live and duty-bearers and politicians who are supposed to protect their rights.

    The alleged discrimination and ridicule of Machila in Salima South could be a stark reminder of the wave of attacks and persecution of persons with albinism during the DPP administration.

    Concerned followers of Machila confirmed to us on Saturday that Machila is facing fresh wave of attacks, discrimination, stigmatisation, persecution and ridicule following his decision to stand in the September 16, 2025, General Elections.

    A Poster for Alex Machila

    “District governor and his constituency counterpart have been going round the area telling people not to vote for Machila because of his skin color. They say persons with albinism don’t live beyond 40 years,” said one of the concerned followers only identifying himself as Yusuf.

    Thus, Yusuf described the attacks, discrimination and ridicule targeting Machila as a classic and high-level abrogation of duty to protect and promote the rights of persons with albinism.

    “We expect DPP to take an exemplary and leading role in defending and promoting him. It is Machila who stood with former President Arthur Peter Mutharika in defending the rights of persons with albinism when APAM [Association for Persons with Albinism in Malawi] refused to meet the former Head of State at the Kamuzu Palace to discuss strategies for ending attacks and killings of persons with albinism. Machila suffered heavy criticism that followed that meeting at the State House, and it’s very sad that DPP has decided to betray him today,” he lamented.

    Corroborating Yusuf’s lamentations, a secondary school teacher and a staunch supporter of Machila, speaking on condition of anonymity, wondered why the party is sidelining their aspirant, arguing Machila has already demonstrated that he is effective and a development-conscious contender.

    The teacher disclosed that Machila has implemented various development projects in the constituency, citing construction of school blocks, installation of solar lights in selected schools and markets.

    “He has also installed solar lights at beaches for fishermen to do business even at night, maintained boreholes, paid school fees for underprivileged students. Recently, has been distributing maize flour and clothes to the vulnerable while the DPP’s preferred candidate has done nothing on the ground. Actually, he is just two months old in the party,” he said in a phone interview on Sunday afternoon.

    Other than verbal slurs, attack, discrimination and ridicule directed at Machila, DPP officials have reportedly created parallel structures from where they have drawn delegates in their efforts to further disenfranchise Machila.

    Hitherto, Machila had intended to run as an independent candidate before DPP coerced him to join and represent it.

    Yusuf said it was sad that the party had decided to victimize and vilify their preferred candidate even after pleading with him to join it.

    Machila refused to say much when contacted for an interview on Sunday.

    “I’m aware of all the political innuendos, attacks and ridicule some politicians have launched on me, but I will choose to reserve my comment for now,” he reacted.

    DPP vice president responsible for the Central Region, Alfred Gangata, said he would refer the matter to the party’s Director of Elections, Jean Mathanga, for appropriate action.

    Meanwhile, the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) Project Officer responsible for Socio-economic Empowerment of Persons with Albinism in Malawi Project, Tuntufye Simwimba, condemned the attacks and discrimination against persons with albinism who have expressed interest to run for political seats.

    Simwimba said the Commission is particularly disappointed that the attacks are coming at a time the Government of Malawi and non-governmental organizations are working tirelessly to empower and encourage persons with disabilities to contest in the forthcoming elections.

    “We denounce the attack and discrimination on Machila. It’s even more unfortunate that those sentiments are coming from DPP officials who were supposed to defend him. I just hope that all the political parties will take effective and sustainable steps towards the elimination of all forms of violence against persons with albinism, contestants in particular, so that we increase the number of persons with disabilities in elective offices,” he said.

  • CMD condemns growing political intolerance, fake news and disinformation ahead of Sept 16 General Elections

    Centre for Multiparty Democracy (CMD) has strongly condemned the growing political intolerance and a wave of political violence as Malawians prepare for the September 16, 2025, General Elections, fearing this would prevent some registered voters from casting their ballots.

    CMD has also strongly condemned the deliberate spread of fake news, misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech, all of which contribute to a culture of hostility and violence.

    CMD is a registered platform for political party dialogue in Malawi, working to facilitate discussions on issues of common and national interest, with the aim of consolidating democracy.

    Its membership is drawn from political parties that have representation in the National Assembly, which currently include the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), People’s Party (PP) and UTM Party.

    CMD Membership

    Reading a communique on behalf of the Secretaries General (SGs) of the political parties that form the Centre on Monday afternoon, CMD chairperson Dr. Elias Chakwera said violence and spread of fake news have created a scenario where many Malawians have lost interest in participating in the electoral process.

    “This is very worrying for us because we need the people to meaningfully participate and elect the leaders of their choice. In return the leaders enjoy the legitimacy and the people hold those leaders to account in ensuring that the principle of social accountability really works,” said Chakwera.

    He said the Centre is deeply concerned over recent acts of political violence in Blantyre, Lilongwe, Machinga, and Dowa, reiterating that political violence has no place in a democratic Malawi.

    Notable recent incidents, according to CMD, include the damaging of vehicles belonging to two DPP women parliamentarians within parliament premises in Lilongwe, the attack and damage of an MCP vehicle in Nselema, Machinga, stoning of presidential convoy in Chikwawa, the stripping of women in MCP regalia in Ndirande, Blantyre and the stoning of the AFORD President’s motorcade in Mchesi, Lilongwe.

    Other incidents include the mounting of illegal road blocks and harassment of people at Mpingu, the biting and assault of DPP supporters in Mponela, Dowa and Lilongwe and many other incidences that have happened in the country, and the stoning of DPP supporters at Mbowe in Lilongwe.

    “These acts are believed to have been carried out by political opponents and serve only to inflame tensions and destabilize democratic processes,” said Chakwera.

    In his contribution, PP SG Ben Chakhame said as a champion of both intra- and inter-party dialogue and implementer of cross-party programmes, the organization envisions a stable, democratic Malawi, guided by its mission to enhance dialogue and promote socio-economic development through stable multiparty democracy.

    Chakhame, who is also the vice chairperson of the organization, stated that it is disheartening that some parties are using violence as a political tool, warning that such acts risk discouraging participation in the electoral process, including voter registration, verification, voting, and monitoring as stipulated above.

    “CMD therefore appeals to all stakeholders to act in the interest of peace, unity, and democracy, political parties must publicly denounce violence and take firm action against members who instigate or participate in such acts. Malawi Police Service must act professionally, investigate incidents of political violence, and ensure that culprits are brought to justice,” he said.

    Chakhame also urged young people to refuse being used as agents of political violence and, instead, opt for dialogue and contact as a means of resolving political differences.

  • Undule rejects CDEDI’s proposal for pre-election governing council

    Renowned Governance and Human Rights Advocate, Undule Mwakasungula, has urged Malawians to take the provisions of the Republican Constitution seriously ahead of the September 16 General Elections, warning that calls to establish a governing council to oversee the management of the national elections are dangerous to the country’s democracy.

    Mwakasungula was reacting to a proposal by the Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI), in their Press Statement issued, in Lilongwe, Monday, May 19, 2025 titled “LET’S ACT NOW TO SAVE OUR COUNTRY “ to establish a governing council before Malawi’s September 2025 general elections at Public Affairs Committee (PAC) All-inclusive Stakeholder’s Conference this week.

    The revered governance and human rights advocate said the proposal is not only impractical, but also unconstitutional and dangerous for our democratic order.

    “Malawi is a constitutional democracy, and the Constitution clearly mandates that executive power lies with the sitting President until a newly elected one is sworn in. Any suggestion to transfer power to an unelected and unaccountable governing council falls outside the constitutional framework and amounts to a civilian coup. Such a move would undermine the rule of law, threaten the country’s peace, and set a harmful precedent,” he reacted.

    Mwakasungula observed that the CDEDI proposal promotes regime change through informal and extra legal means, which contradicts the very essence of democracy.

    Mwakasungula: Don't forget that we're a nation in mourning, let us give contact and dialogue a chance
    Mwakasungula: We should respect for Malawi’s Constitution ahead of the September 16 elections.

    While acknowledging CDEDI’s frustration over the shortfalls of the current administration, he emphasized the need to pursue legal and democratic channels when addressing within electoral challenges.

    “The upcoming PAC stakeholders meeting should remain focused on facilitating peaceful, credible, inclusive elections and other issues affecting the country.. It is not the right forum to entertain discussions about establishing an unconstitutional structure to replace the current government. Historically, PAC has played a critical role in conflict resolution, promoting peace and national dialogue. It should continue to serve that noble purpose and not be hijacked by voices calling for political experiments that threaten national unity

    “Our focus right now should be on ensuring that electoral institutions, such as the Malawi Electoral Commission is empowered to carry out duties independently and fairly. Civic and voter education must be intensified, campaign environments must be monitored to reduce violence and hate speech, and public trust in the electoral process must be reinforced. These are the issues PAC should prioritize and not side-tracking the nation with calls for interim arrangements that lack both legal standing and bring the nation to a standstill,” he said.

    “It is important to understand that Malawi is not in a constitutional crisis that warrants the suspension of its governance framework. There are no grounds for abandoning the normal electoral calendar or the existing political institutions. Dissatisfaction with government performance must be expressed not by replacing the government through an informal body with no constitutional authority. If we allow unelected groups to take control whenever there is public discontent, we will destabilize the country and erode public confidence in democratic processes. This proposal, if accepted, would open the door for future political chaos. Today it is a governing council. Tomorrow it could be a demand for religious or military rule. It is a dangerous road that Malawians should never walk. We must protect the Constitution and the institutions that uphold our democracy,” he added.

    Mwakasungula said while the civil society, including CDEDI, plays an important role in a democratic Malawi, their role needs to be exercised within the boundaries of the law, stressing that efforts should be directed at holding leaders accountable not through unconstitutional calls for regime change.

    “The upcoming elections must be the focus of all our efforts. We must invest in peace-building, civic education, electoral integrity, and institutional accountability. The will of the people must be expressed at the ballot box not through backroom deals and parallel power structures,” he stated.

    Undule Mwakasungula is a renowned Malawian governance, public policy, and human rights advocate. He has played a central role in advancing democracy, civic participation, and development dialogue in Malawi and across the SADC region.

  • CSEIF calls for patriotic responsibility ahead of PAC indaba

    The Civil Society Election Integrity Forum (CSEIF) has cautioned political parties and other stakeholders against turning the forthcoming Public Affairs Committee (PAC) all-inclusive conference into a talk show for political expediency.

    PAC is scheduled to convene an all-inclusive stakeholder conference at the Mount Soche Hotel in Blantyre from 20th to 21st May 2025. The conference will be convened under the theme: “Securing Consensus on Transparent and Accountable Governance Through Dialogue.”

    While commending the Committee for what he described as a timely intervention, CSEIF chairperson Benedicto Kondowe warned overzealous politicians and stakeholders against politicizing the event.

    “As CSEIF, we urge all stakeholders to approach this dialogue with constructive engagement, sobriety, and a deep sense of national responsibility. Let the discourse transcend partisanship, and avoid devolving into a talk show for political expedience. Instead, it must be grounded in truth, patriotism, and a collective commitment to the greater good while remaining sensitive to the legitimate interests of various actors. We believe this is a pivotal moment to clearly define the boundaries between institutional independence and the imperative of accountability in safeguarding electoral integrity,” said Kondowe in a statement issued on Sunday.

    CSEIF chairperson Benedicto Kondowe

    “We also believe such a forum offers an opportunity to reset the tone of our national conversations and reimagine a future where dialogue is not episodic but embedded in our democratic culture. We further call for actionable outcomes from the dialogue that can feed into reforms and policy direction for a stronger Malawi. Let us rise above divisions, engage honestly, and act boldly in the interest of the nation. It must challenge pessimism for hope; apathy for action; and personal gain for the collective good,” he added.

    Meanwhile, CSEIF has commended PAC’s consistency in providing a trusted platform for inclusive national dialogue since its inception; fostering reflection, consensus, and solutions on critical governance and development challenges.

    According to Kondowe, this year’s focus on elections, political violence, and the economy speaks directly to Malawi’s pressing priorities, observing that these are not isolated issues, but interconnected pillars that determine the stability and future of Malawi’s democracy and national wellbeing.

    “Dialogue of this nature is essential in anchoring national building efforts in shared values of transparency, accountability, peace, and economic justice,” he said.

  • Anambawala Rest house denies involvement in Mponela political violence

    Officials from Ntcheu-based hospitality firm – Anambawala Resthouse – have denied allegations that they was involved in the political violence that occurred at Mponela in Dowa district.

    The violence, whose perpetrators are said to be political party operatives, saw Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) being attacked after a campaign rally in the district.

    However, social media fanatic, Comrade Ntanyiwa, claimed that the hospitality firm was involved in the fracas.

    But in an interview on Tuesday, one of the senior officials at the firm dismissed the accusations, stating that they are not involved in any partisan politics in their businesses.

    “We’ve come across a voice note securating on social media, recorded by one allegedly Comrade Ntanyiwa on 12th May 2025, through his you tube channel (Limpopo FM) speculating that our business “Anambawala Resthouse” in Ntcheu District is owned by one politician named “Mbawala” who also was mentioned to be allegedly involved in an attack to DPP members as they were passing Mponela. I am here to refute those statements to the public as “Anambawala Resthouse” is a family business owned by us the Changantuwas and has no any sort of connection to Mbalawa nor having any relations with him,” said an official from the rest house.

    “My message to the pupportedly Comrade Ntanyiwa is that defamatory allegations/statement or any sort of character assassination is punishable by law. And I wish to advise that you withdraw our business name from the allegations or we’ll have to take this matter a step further,” he warned.

  • Book Review: How to Make Money Grow on Trees

    Tendai M. Shaba’s How to Make Money Grow on Trees is a guide to personal finance and investment, tailored to the economic context of Malawi while addressing broader African realities.

    Shaba, a Malawian author with an educational background in business administration, uses his training to present financial concepts in a clear, accessible manner.

    The book’s title, suggesting wealth can grow effortlessly, serves as an engaging hook, but the content focuses on practical steps for managing money in a developing economy.

    The book is divided into sections on budgeting, saving, investing, and retirement planning. Shaba illustrates these concepts with examples from Malawi, such as a Lilongwe trader who stabilizes their finances through budgeting and small-scale savings.

    These stories connect abstract principles to real-life scenarios, showing how financial strategies can apply in resource-limited settings.

    Shaba emphasizes financial literacy as a critical skill. In Malawi, where the World Bank reports only 34% of adults have access to formal financial services, this focus addresses a significant gap.

    The book’s guidance is also relevant in other African countries, such as Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Tanzania, where financial inclusion remains low. By presenting tools for money management, Shaba responds to a widespread need across the region.

    The writing is straightforward, avoiding technical jargon. Shaba employs analogies, like comparing compound interest to a maize crop yielding more each season, to explain concepts clearly. His use of local expressions adds a conversational tone, though it may not appeal to all readers.

    The style prioritizes clarity over formality, which suits the book’s aim of reaching a broad audience but may feel informal to some.

    How to Make Money Grow on Trees
    Shaba – The author

    The book is grounded in Malawi’s economic landscape, where agriculture dominates. Shaba directs his advice toward farmers and small entrepreneurs, offering strategies for saving and investing that reflect their circumstances.

    Reports from the African Development Bank note Malawi’s recent economic growth, which has increased demand for financial education, and Shaba’s guide engages with this trend.

    The principles also apply to other African economies, such as Nigeria’s market-driven environment or Kenya’s urban centers, where financial knowledge is increasingly valuable.

    Shaba discusses technology’s role in expanding financial access in Malawi, noting how mobile banking and digital platforms benefit rural communities. He advises caution against risks like fraud, presenting a practical view of these tools.

    This perspective aligns with trends in countries like Ghana and Rwanda, where technology is reshaping finance, though the book remains focused on Malawi’s experience.

    The book addresses sustainability, suggesting investments in community-based agricultural projects that support Malawi’s environmental and social needs. Given the country’s climate vulnerabilities, this focus is relevant and connects to similar priorities in Ethiopia and Uganda.

    Shaba frames these investments as practical options, keeping the discussion rooted in financial strategy.

    Gender is another focus, with a chapter addressing women’s financial challenges in Malawi. A United Nations report indicates African women face disproportionate poverty, and Shaba provides advice on budgeting, saving, and investing to support their financial independence.

    This guidance is pertinent in Malawi and extends to Zambia and Tanzania, where women encounter similar barriers.
    The book has limitations. Its focus on individual financial strategies does not address systemic issues, such as Malawi’s limited financial infrastructure or regulatory challenges.

    This scope is appropriate for a personal finance guide but leaves broader economic questions unexplored. Additionally, the examples are predominantly Malawian, often centered on Lilongwe or rural areas.

    Readers in West Africa, like those in Nigeria, or East Africa, like in Kenya, may find the examples less reflective of their contexts.

    The book targets readers new to personal finance. Shaba effectively explains basic concepts, such as budgeting and interest, but offers less for those with advanced knowledge. The Malawian context provides a specific lens, which may still interest experienced readers, though the content remains introductory.

    Shaba’s educational background in business administration supports the book’s clear presentation of financial concepts. His authorship reflects an intent to share knowledge with Malawi’s communities, though he is not a widely recognized figure in financial literature.

    The book’s strength lies in its practical examples, drawn from Malawi’s everyday economic realities, which lend credibility to the advice.

    In Malawi, where financial inclusion is low, the book offers strategies for those outside formal financial systems, such as rural farmers and small traders. Its guidance is also applicable in urban areas like Blantyre or regional cities like Lusaka, where economic dynamics are similar. By focusing on Malawi while noting parallels in other African countries, the book addresses both local and regional audiences.

    The book does not promise quick wealth, despite its title. Instead, it outlines a methodical approach to financial management. Shaba’s emphasis on practical steps, rooted in Malawi’s economy and applicable elsewhere in Africa, makes it a relevant guide for its intended readers.

    How to Make Money Grow on Trees is a focused contribution to personal finance literature. Its scope is limited to individual strategies and Malawian examples, and it prioritizes beginners over advanced readers.

    However, its clear explanations, contextual relevance, and practical advice make it a useful resource. Shaba’s straightforward style and grounding in Malawi’s economic realities provide a solid foundation for readers in Malawi and other African countries seeking to navigate personal finance.

  • Chanthunya appointed new board chairperson of Central Region Water Board

    President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has appointed Ronald Chanthunya as the new Board Chairperson for the Central Region Water Board (CRWB).

    The appointment follows the dissolution of previous ones whose tenure expired.

    CRWB oversees eight districts in Malawi, and they include Ntcheu, Dedza, Salima, Nkhotakota, Kasungu, Mchinji, Dowa, and Ntchisi.

    In an interview on Sunday, Chanthunya expressed gratitude to the appointing authority and President Chakwera, in particular, for entrusting him with the stewardship of the esteemed Board.

    Ronald Chanthunya, the new Board Chairperson for the Central Region Water Board

    He acknowledged the confidence placed in him and committed to fulfilling his mandate with diligence and excellence.

    Chanthunya emphasized the importance of water, stating that it is life. He plans to provide strategic leadership to ensure the long-term success of the Central Region Water Board.

    He said his goals include establishing prudent systems, through implementation of the robust risk management measures and adhering to approved strategic goals.

    Chanthunya added that he will strive to uphold high standards by ensuring the Blboard operates with the highest standards of corporate governance and ethical goals, aligned with “The Malawi Code II” and the code of best practices for corporate governance in Malawi.

    Chanthunya brings valuable experience to his new role, having previously served on the National Economic Empowerment Fund Board and the Blantyre Water Board.

  • WOCACA holds Blue Hat, Bow Tie Campaign to raise awareness on colorectal cancer

    Women’s Coalition Against Cancer (WOCACA) on Friday held the Blue Hat, Bow Tie Campaign at Kabudula Community Hospital to raise critical awareness on colorectal cancer in Malawi.

    The event was also aimed at equipping frontline healthcare workers, especially health surveillance assistants (HSAs), with knowledge and skills to promote early detection and timely referrals for suspected colorectal cancer cases.

    The activity brought together 10 HSAs, a nurse, two Environmental Health Officers (EHOs), and WOCACA representatives, all united in the fight against colorectal cancer.

    Key speakers at the event included Dr. Deborah Katete (Kabudula Community Hospital In-Charge), Lemson Phiri (a nurse from the Ministry of Health), and Esther Nyirenda, who is WOCACA Project Officer.

    They all emphasized on the importance of early screening, recognizing symptoms, and encouraging lifestyle changes to reduce risk factors.

    According to the speakers, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer related death globally accounting for just over nine percent of all cancer deaths, yet its impact is often underestimated in low- and middle-income countries due to a lack of data, stigma, and systemic barriers.

    A nurse engaging HSAs in a discussion on colorectal cancer

    Symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue often go unrecognized, delaying crucial medical interventions.

    The session empowered HSAs with practical skills in case identification, community education, and referral systems, ensuring they can act as strong advocates in their communities.

    By bridging the gap between community health workers and hospital staff, the initiative strengthens the fight against colorectal cancer at the grassroots level.

    The event was financially supported by the Global Colon Cancer Association (GCCA), an organization that represents millions of colorectal cancer patients worldwide.

    GCCA advocates for patient-centered policies, increased awareness, better screening, and access to quality medical treatment. The association also helps establish patient advocacy groups in areas where none exist, uniting all stakeholders in the fight against this disease.

    Additionally, UDK Consultancy contributed 20 blue balls as part of promotional materials for the event, aiding in raising awareness against colorectal cancer.

    Prevention remains the strongest weapon, and WOCACA continues to urge Malawians to adopt healthy lifestyles avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, staying active, and undergoing screenings.

    “Colorectal cancer is treatable if detected early. Let’s talk about it, get screened, and save lives,” said WOCACA Project Officer, Esther Nyirenda.

  • NICE urges political stakeholders to ensure peaceful campaign

    National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Public Trust has called upon politicians and their followers to ensure they maintain peace and respect for one another’s rights during the campaign ahead of the September 16 General Elections.

    NICE District Programmes Officer for Ntchisi, Adam Disi, made the call during a phone-in programme hosted on Ntchisi Youth FM Radio on Thursday.

    Disi, while assuring that his organization remains committed to educating all stakeholders on the benefits of peaceful politics, emphasized that violence has no place in a democratic society like Malawi.

    Panelists during the programme

    “That’s why NICE has been holding meetings with officials and the general public in the district to ensure that we have peaceful elections on September 16, 2025. We will be visiting markets and meeting with various officials to spread the message that there should be no violence in politics,” said Disi.

    In his contribution, Traditional Authority (T/A) Kalumo said he has already started meeting with chiefs to inform them of their role in ensuring that the upcoming elections are peaceful.

    Also in attendance at the phone-in programme were Sub-Inspector Mzembe from the police and Mwawonanji Kachisuzi, chairperson for the Ntchisi District Youth Organization.

  • Extravagance as Chakwera govt blows MK386m to bribe MPs to pass 2025-2026 budget

    Call it extravagance at its best! Revelations have shown that between Tuesday and Friday this week only, the government, under President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, blew MK386 million to bribe the 193 members of Parliament (MPs) to pass the 2025-2026 National Budget.

    The intention: bulldoze lawmakers to pass the budget without scrutiny. As if this was not enough, the government also spent an undisclosed amount of taxpayers’ money to host MPs to two dinner parties where MPs were given K500, 000 each at each of the two dinners, translating into K1 million each.

    The dinner parties were held at the Bingu International Convention Centre (on Tuesday night) and Capital Hotel (on Thursday night) prior and after the passing of the budget.

    The Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, Simplex Chithyola Banda, could not be reached on his mobile line when we sought his comment.

    However, our reliable sources, who included MPs from both opposition and governing sides, confided in us, revealing that all the legislators got the money whose purpose was not disclosed.

    “On Tuesday night, we got K500, 000 each, following by another K500, 000, which we received at the Thursday night dinner at Capital Hotel. And on Friday, each lawmaker carted home K1 million as a token of appreciation for cooperating with the government to pass the budget without much scrutiny,” said a Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator who asked for anonymity.

    Parliament siting in session

    MCP’s vocal and outspoken parliamentarian for Rumphi West, Yona Adadawiza Mkandawire, confirmed to have attended both dinner parties, but was evasive on the money shared amongst them.

    Without directly responding to our questions, DPP lawmaker for Blantyre North, Francis Phiso, on Friday afternoon complained against the tendency by MCP administration to force MPs to pass financial bills under duress.

    Phiso’s remarks followed revelations that Chithyola Banda was earlier whisked off the United States-bound flight to present financial bills in parliament.

    “Why can’t they give us enough time to debate and pass these bills? Yesterday, we spend the whole day debating not-so useful things, only to be bombarded with work today so that we don’t scrutinize. This is very unfortunate,” he grumbled.

    Social and political commentators have condemned what he has termed as “an extravagance that deprives the poor of their right to development”.

    The commentators said what was most painful was that fact that the government does not disclose the source of the money distributed to the lawmakers.

    “As we approach the September 16 General Elections, it is up to Malawians to decide the kind of leadership they would want for the next five years,” they said.