LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-A heated exchange erupted in Parliament during debate on the State of the Nation Address (SONA) as Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Ben Malunga Phiri launched a blistering attack on Leader of Opposition Simplex Chithyola Banda, accusing him of presiding over “a lot of plunder” during his tenure as Minister of Finance.
Phiri, speaking amid rising tension in the House, alleged that Chithyola Banda oversaw financial mismanagement that contributed to economic challenges currently facing the country.
He questioned the moral authority of the opposition leader to criticise the present administration, arguing that accountability must begin with those who previously held key financial portfolios.
The remarks sparked murmurs and sharp reactions from opposition benches, with members rising to defend their leader.
The confrontation added dramatic intensity to the SONA debate, which has already been marked by partisan exchanges over the state of the economy, public debt, and service delivery.
Chithyola Banda, however, has consistently maintained that the opposition’s role is to provide checks and balances, insisting that government must take full responsibility for current economic hardships.
The clash underscores deep political divisions in the House as lawmakers continue scrutinising the President’s address and the broader direction of the country.