BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Presidential candidate for the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF), Atupele Muluzi, outlined his priorities if elected during the September 16 General Election.
He said his focus would be on ensuring food security and putting money directly into the pockets of Malawians.
Muluzi recalled that during the UDF government in 1994, citizens had sufficient food, learners received scholastic materials, and former President Bakili Muluzi abolished primary school fees.
He added that the country also experienced more development projects and expanded opportunities for citizens to earn income.
Muluzi made these remarks on Sunday at Nkhate in Chikwawa East Bank during his whistlestop rallies across the district.
He accused the current government of failing to address the needs of Malawians, particularly in rural areas.
He said, “Our major targets are ensuring food for the entire nation and making money available to everyone. When we were in power in 1994, the United States Dollar was at K110, but today it is exchanged at K1,700, while on the black market it goes as high as K4,000. This has pushed up the cost of commodities and hurt people in the rural areas. We are the only answer to these challenges.”
He further emphasized trust, stating, “The country should trust me because I have no history of theft. It is my prayer that you give me a five-year mandate come September 16.”
Immediate past Member of Parliament for Chikwawa East Constituency, Rodreck Sam Khumbanyiwa, also addressed supporters, expressing readiness to deliver more development in the area.
Khumbanyiwa said his plans include improving education and health services and extending electricity to various health centres and schools, including Nkhate Trading Centre, once they are voted back into power on September 16.
Muluzi also highlighted key UDF manifesto priorities for agriculture, including providing subsidized fertilizers and seeds, supporting smallholder farmers with training and access to markets, and implementing irrigation projects to boost crop yields.
He emphasized the creation of sustainable jobs through support for small and medium enterprises, investment in agro-processing, and promotion of youth and women entrepreneurship programs across rural and urban areas.
On social services, Muluzi promised to enhance access to quality healthcare, increase funding for schools, and expand social safety nets for vulnerable populations to ensure no Malawian is left behind.
He also committed to strengthening infrastructure, including rural roads, electricity, and water supply, to support economic activity and improve living conditions.
Concluding Analysis
Atupele Muluzi’s whistlestop campaign in Chikwawa East underscores his comprehensive vision for Malawi, focusing on food security, economic relief, and broad-based development.
By tying past UDF successes to current manifesto commitments in agriculture, jobs, and social services, he positions himself as a credible candidate capable of delivering tangible results for ordinary citizens.
Khumbanyiwa’s support highlights the party’s commitment to local development, education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements.
As the September 16 elections approach, the UDF’s detailed policy proposals aim to appeal directly to voters impacted by rising costs, rural hardships, and inadequate social services, making a clear case for change.
