The Public Affairs Committee (PAC) has warned that the government risks losing public trust if it fails to take immediate and meaningful action to address the country’s current pressing challenges.
Speaking during an interface meeting with State President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera at Kamuzu Palace on Monday, PAC Chairperson Monsignor Dr. Patrick Thawale said the lack of action could lead to political instability and jeopardize the President’s prospects in the 2025 elections.
In his remarks, Dr. Thawale acknowledged the government’s achievements in infrastructure development and strengthening international relations.
However, he expressed concern that unresolved issues, particularly corruption, economic hardships, and inefficiencies within the civil service, have significantly eroded public confidence in the administration.
“Your Excellency, we are calling upon you to act on issues of national importance before the public rises against you. Patience has limits,” Dr. Thawale stated, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the nation’s challenges.
Dr. Thawale criticized the perceived inaction on corruption allegations involving high-ranking officials, describing it as a betrayal of the anti-corruption stance that had inspired public hope during the 2020 election campaign.
He noted that the administration’s failure to take decisive action has fueled perceptions of hypocrisy and weakened trust in the government’s ability to uphold transparency and accountability.
The PAC Chair also lamented the rising cost of basic commodities and the declining standard of living, highlighting public dissatisfaction towards the current regime.
He urged the government to support the recently appointed Reserve Bank of Malawi top officials and re-evaluate fiscal policies to stabilize the economy and alleviate the burden on citizens.
The civil service, described as the engine of public service delivery, was identified as another area in need of urgent reform.
Monsignor Thawale pointed to the prolonged vacancies in key positions, such as the Principal Secretary for Administration, as evidence of the administration’s failure to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in public governance.
As the country moves toward the 2025 elections, PAC urged the government to prioritize good governance, cautioning against actions that might be perceived as undemocratic, such as stifling opposition demonstrations.
He warned that poor governance could lead to contested election results and further political instability.
While acknowledging the administration’s notable progress in infrastructure development, the quasi religious body stressed that these achievements are not enough to offset the broader challenges facing the country.
The committee called on President Chakwera to take bold and decisive steps to address these issues, restore public confidence, and secure his legacy.
“The failures are massive and obvious. It is our hope that in the remaining months, you can turn around this perception. The doubt is real,” feared Dr Thawale.
About the Author
Sosten Mpinganjira is a news reporter with a track record of delivering timely and accurate news stories. With vast experience working with renowned news electronic, press, and online outlets, he has honed his reporting skills and has a deep understanding of the media landscape. He has a knack for delivering breaking news with accuracy and insight. He is dedicated to keeping his readers informed about current events and trends that shape our world.