Anti-government demonstrations planned for August 8

A group of citizens known as Malawi First has announced plans to hold nationwide demonstrations on August 8 this year, following the government’s alleged failure to address “three critical issues” within a specified period.

However, government spokesperson Moses Kunkuyu maintains that Malawi First has not fully recognised the progress being made in the areas it has highlighted.

Two weeks ago, the group gave the government 10 days to address challenges related to the issuance of national identity cards by the National Registration Bureau (NRB), the implementation of excise tax stamps by the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) and alleged politically motivated arrests.

In a briefing to reporters in Lilongwe Tuesday, Malawi First leader and activist Bon Kalindo claimed that the government has failed to repeal the tax stamps policy, which he argued is stifling local businesses.

According to Kalindo, by charging traders for tax stamps, the government is essentially punishing them for being honest and using formal channels.

However, in a previous response to concerns about the tax stamps, MRA Director of Corporate Affairs Steven Kapoloma said the issue is not new.

Kapoloma added that the tax collector had actively engaged with stakeholders—including manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, cross-border traders and importers—regarding the excise tax stamp system before and during its initial implementation phase.

“During these engagements, the authority and concerned stakeholders agreed on a way forward, and the authority is currently addressing all issues noted during the initial phase before the full rollout,” he said.

Regarding the NRB issues, Kalindo accused the government of failing to address the challenges, resulting in citizens not receiving essential documents on time.

He also claimed that the government has not ceased political arrests.

In a later interview, Kunkuyu emphasised that dialogue remains the best approach for a country like Malawi, despite political differences.

“We are a country on the move,” the minister said.