Survey: 89% of Malawians say country headed in wrong direction
Charles Kajoloweka, executive director of Youth and Society and a governance expert, cited a lack of commitment to fighting corruption as a major issue.
LILONGWE, Malawi— A new Afrobarometer survey released Wednesday indicates that 89% of Malawians believe their country is moving in the wrong direction, ahead of next year's elections, writes Pemphero Musowa.
The report, "African insights 2024: Democracy at risk – the people's perspective," shows Malawi's preference for democracy has dropped 18 points to 58% from 76% in 2011.
Key findings include:
- 66% say corruption has increased somewhat or a lot in the past year
- 37% believe most or all officials in the Presidency are corrupt
- 51% say officials who commit crimes rarely or never go unpunished
- 80% believe ordinary people who commit crimes rarely or never go unpunished
The survey warns: "Waning public support for the system [democracy], if left unchecked, could spell potential problems in years to come."
Charles Kajoloweka, executive director of Youth and Society and a governance expert, cited a lack of commitment to fighting corruption as a major issue.
"There is no accountability, which is thwarting economic efforts," Kajoloweka said.
Afrobarometer, a nonpartisan research network, conducts public attitude surveys across Africa.