Malawi Religious Leaders Blast President Over Corruption, Economic Woes
"The failures are massive and obvious," Thawale told Chakwera, according to an official PAC statement.
LILONGWE, Malawi — In a scathing critique delivered at the presidential palace, Malawi's top religious advisory body warned President Lazarus Chakwera that his administration faces mounting public dissatisfaction over corruption, economic mismanagement and civil service dysfunction, writes Winston Mwale.
The Public Affairs Committee (PAC), led by Monsignor Patrick Thawale, confronted Chakwera during a January 13 meeting, telling the president his leadership has been "tainted with hypocrisy" and that his party risks losing power in 2025 unless dramatic changes occur.
"The failures are massive and obvious," Thawale told Chakwera, according to an official PAC statement.
"We are calling upon you to act on issues of national importance before the public rises against you. Patience has limits."
The religious leaders particularly criticized Chakwera's handling of corruption allegations involving close ministers and government officials, citing problems with agricultural inputs and fuel procurement programs.
They argued his inaction "not only manifest[s] lack of statecraft but also cluelessness on operations of state machinery."
While praising infrastructure improvements in the capital city, PAC leaders painted a dire picture of economic conditions.
"Currently the standard of living in Malawi is disastrous. Prices of basic commodities do not match the income your followers earn," Thawale stated in his remarks.
The committee also raised concerns about political oppression as elections approach, describing Chakwera's Malawi Congress Party as "becoming another instrument for oppression" and criticizing recent arrests of prominent figures.
"Even in your strongholds, the doubt on your winning is loud and clear," Thawale warned the president, though he acknowledged there was still time to "turn around this perception."
The stark assessment comes as Chakwera, a former Pentecostal preacher elected in 2020 on an anti-corruption platform, faces growing criticism over his government's performance.
PAC noted that despite his campaign promises, allegations of grand corruption have "mushroomed" within the civil service under his watch.
During that meeting, PAC reminded the President of commitments made back in 2019, including the pledge to maintain a Cabinet of fewer than 20 members—a promise that remains unfulfilled.
The committee, which represents major Christian and Muslim groups in Malawi, has historically played an influential role in the country's politics, particularly during its transition from one-party rule to democracy in the 1990s.
Meanwhile, Presidential Press Secretary Anthony Kasunda said that the discussions occurred in an open and honest atmosphere, highlighting the mutual respect between the President and PAC.
Kasunda emphasized the government's commitment to accountability and good governance, stating that President Chakwera acknowledged PAC's significant role in fostering national dialogue and development since he took office.
The President, according to Kasunda, also reaffirmed his administration's dedication to addressing various issues raised by PAC, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in driving Malawi’s progress.
Kasunda conveyed that the President assured PAC of his government’s focus on delivering on promises and implementing transformative initiatives aimed at improving the lives of all Malawians.
Notably, this meeting follows their last engagement on November 28, 2023, where similar concerns were discussed.
The ongoing dialogue reflects the critical relationship between the government and civil society in Malawi's governance landscape.