Pro-Federalism Group Urges Support for New Govt System
However, some critics caution that transitioning to a federal system could be complex and costly for the impoverished southern African nation.
MZIMBA, Malawi- A group advocating for federalism in Malawi has called on citizens to support the introduction of a federal system of government, arguing the current unitary system has failed to transform lives, writes Victoria Yande.
Ambokile Mwangosi, president of Malawi Federal for Change, made the call Wednesday during an engagement with chiefs in Mzimba district.
"Unitary system is failing to transform lives of Malawians, and development projects are not distributed according to economic contribution by regions," Mwangosi said. "
Federal system is the only realistic way of implementing economic policies aimed at helping Malawians. Change is needed; the unitary government has failed."
Roosevelt Phiri, secretary for chiefs at Mzimba urban, welcomed the idea of adopting a federal system, saying the unitary system is not benefiting the poor.
"Chiefs are welcoming the idea of adopting a federal system, saying the unitary system is not benefiting the poor," Phiri said.
"We have also called for massive awareness meetings with the rural population to understand the technicalities of a federal government system."
The pro-federalism group argues that a federal model would devolve more power and resources to regions based on their economic output, leading to more equitable development.
However, some critics caution that transitioning to a federal system could be complex and costly for the impoverished southern African nation.