Politicians who rely on freebies and cash to sway voters will soon face serious legal consequences as new regulations to enforce the prohibition of handouts under the Political Parties Act (PPA) of 2018 are nearing completion. These regulations are expected to be tabled before the 51st Session of Parliament, scheduled to begin on February 14, 2025.
The Public Affairs Committee (PAC) met with President Lazarus Chakwera on January 13, 2025, to address critical national issues, praising his administration’s achievements while expressing dissatisfaction with its handling of corruption, the economy, and civil service leadership gaps.
As Malawi heads into a decisive election, the choice between President Lazarus Chakwera and former President Peter Mutharika should not be taken lightly. This election is not just about names on a ballot; it’s about the future of our nation—our economy, our governance, and the welfare of all Malawians. Let us carefully examine the facts and ask ourselves: Do we want a resilient, forward-thinking leader or a return to the weak, divisive, and disastrous leadership of the past?
The question that baffles many Malawians today is this: how can Dalitso Kabambe, who has assumed the presidency of the UTM Party and is actively participating in politics, still be considered a civil servant? The government’s apparent reluctance to take decisive action against him raises serious concerns about the application of the law and the integrity of public service.
In a revealing interview on Times Television Exclusive on Saturday night, Patricia Kaliati, a senior UTM official, delivered strong remarks about Michael Usi, urging him to focus on his role as the country’s Vice President rather than engaging in actions that undermine the party.
In a dazzling testament to his integrity and leadership, Atupele Muluzi, President of United Democratic Front (UDF), has been named one of the 100 Most Reputable Africans for 2025 by the globally renowned Reputation Poll International (RPI). This prestigious accolade places Muluzi alongside some of the continent’s most iconic figures, including actor Idris Elba, economist Dambisa Moyo, Ghana’s President-Elect John Dramani Mahama, and business magnate Mo Ibrahim.
The amended electoral law barring changes to running mates during a presidential election re-run has created a strategic challenge for Malawi’s political parties ahead of the September polls. The law, aimed at ensuring continuity and stability in candidatures, is forcing parties to rethink their approach to alliances and running mate selection.
President Lazarus Chakwera swept into power on a wave of hope and high expectations, with promises of a lean, efficient, and transparent government at the core of his campaign. However, as his term nears its end, his track record suggests a growing gap between his words and actions, leaving many Malawians disappointed and disillusioned.
The growing rift between Vice-President Michael Usi and the UTM Party leadership has raised serious questions about the future of the party and its ability to serve as a cohesive political force. At the heart of the dispute lies Usi’s refusal to recognize the legitimacy of the current UTM leadership and his rejection of summons to appear before the party’s disciplinary committee. This feud is eroding the party’s credibility and unity at a time when it should be consolidating its efforts to remain relevant in Malawi’s political landscape.
Former president Bakili Muluzi has initiated efforts to bring together national and regional leaders to mediate the long-standing Lake Malawi border dispute between Malawi and Tanzania.