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The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has denied rumors that the government is planning to introduce an Age Bill aimed at blocking former President Peter Mutharika from contesting in the upcoming elections.
Richard Chimwendo Banda, the party’s Secretary General, described the rumors as “baseless” and “propaganda” spread by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to deceive the public.
“There is no Age Bill whatsoever. We are not afraid of anyone. Anyone who is eligible will contest and we will campaign and win the elections,” Chimwendo Banda said.
Chimwendo Banda made the remarks on Saturday at Thambani in Mwanza, where he also urged people to vote for President Lazarus Chakwera in the upcoming elections. He was accompanied by other senior party officials, including Abida Mia, Owen Chomanika, and Moses Kunkuyu.
He urged Malawians to vote for Chakwera again, promising that the president will correct his past mistakes and deliver on his campaign promises.
Chimwendo Banda’s remarks come amidst speculation that the government is planning to introduce an Age Bill that would bar Mutharika, who is above 80 years old, from contesting in the elections. However, the MCP has denied any knowledge of such a bill, describing the rumors as a ploy by the DPP to gain sympathy from the public.
The development has sparked heated debate among Malawians, with some calling on the government to clarify its position on the matter. Others have urged the MCP and the DPP to focus on issue-based campaigning rather than spreading propaganda and rumors.
As the country prepares for the upcoming elections, the debate over the Age Bill is likely to continue, with many Malawians eagerly waiting to see how the situation unfolds.
The upcoming launch of the SKC Foundation, set for February 12, 2024, at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, has ignited a firestorm of political controversy.
This follows the revelation that President Lazarus Chakwera has been invited to the event, leading to intense debate over the appropriateness of his attendance.
Political tensions have escalated, primarily fueled by ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) cadres on social media, who have been quick to politicize the occasion.
The SKC Foundation, named after the late Dr. Saulosi Chilima, the former Vice President of Malawi, is intended to honor his legacy.
However, discussions surrounding its launch have taken a troubling turn, with accusations suggesting that the Chilima family did not formally invite President Chakwera.
This situation raises critical questions about the nature of the foundation’s purpose and the potential politicization of a family event.
Political scientist Victor Chipofya has weighed in on the matter, urging caution against the politicization of the foundation’s objectives.
“Let us first understand the purpose of the foundation,” he stated. “If its aim is to enhance and motivate young aspiring politicians, then politicization might not pose an issue.
“However, if the foundation is intended for charity work, politicizing it would be improper, especially considering the sensitive nature of Dr. Chilima’s passing.”
Chipofya highlighted that the circumstances surrounding the late vice president’s death remain unclear for many Malawians, and any political undertones could detract from the family’s efforts to honor his memory.
Adding to the controversy, Joshua Valera, spokesperson for the Chilima family, declined to comment on the invitation to President Chakwera.
Reports have emerged that Mary Chilima, the widow of the late vice president, was not consulted regarding the invitation.
A source close to the family revealed that Mrs. Chilima only became aware of the president’s invitation through media outlets.
“Yes, I can confirm that Mrs. Chilima never invited President Chakwera to the launch of the SKC Foundation, and she was shocked to learn of it via the media,” the source stated, emphasizing the surprise felt by the family.
The source went on to explain that the invitation appears to have been extended without the family’s knowledge or consent, suggesting a potential breach in protocol by the organizing committee.
“As I speak, she is contemplating her next course of action,” the source continued, leaving the family’s response shrouded in uncertainty.
This incident is further complicated by the Chilima family’s history of limiting invitations to President Chakwera and government officials at family events, including a memorial mass and laying of wreaths at the late vice president’s grave in December 2023.
This pattern suggests a rift between the Chilima family and the current administration, making the invitation all the more contentious.
As the launch date approaches, the potential for political maneuvering persists.
Chipofya’s warning against such politicization carries significant weight; if the event is manipulated for political gain, it risks overshadowing the fundamental objectives of the foundation and the memory of the late Dr. Saulosi Chilima.
The foundation’s aims should transcend party politics, focusing instead on charitable endeavors and the betterment of society—an aspiration that many hope will remain intact as the event draws near.
Ultimately, the handling of this delicate invitation will likely set the tone for the foundation’s future and the legacy of its namesake.
The coming days will prove pivotal in determining whether this event can be a fitting tribute to Dr. Chilima or if it will falter under the weight of political strife.
View from Jamimah Ray Michaillah on Facebook. Why Invite Lazarus Chakwera?
The news that Mary Nkhamanyachi Chilima , Wife to the late Vice President have extended invitation to the current president has been celebrated to the extreme. The trumpet shown by MCP with the invitation shows how wicked they are. They have guilty conscious for the wrongs they did today Chilima. The invitation ikuonetsa ngati ndiyomwe yawayeretsa pano alapa.
The question is, What are they celebrating about? That their sins have been forgiven? Or that they won’t be painted as Killer again? We’re they bothered about it? If they never DID that why were they so afraid?
The name they wnmanyed to bury,
The name they never wanted to hear,
The Name they inflicted so much pain upon since 2020.
The name they arrested for 2 years for no reason,
The name they took all the delegated powers
The name they wanted to kill and never to be held anywhere.
The same name of Saulos Klaus Chilima is the one they are celebrating. Do these people have the soul?
I would like to applaud mai Chilima for the bold decision to invite the president who lied to Malawians about the plain crush that it arrived in Mzuzu. A LIER.
THank you Mai Chilima for Inviting the president who took 11 hrs before informing Malawians about SKC DISAPPEARANCE so that no one should go out early and look for him.
Thank you Mary for inviting the president who lied about the thick forest. You did well. Atleast when the president sit on his chair and admire you speaking about SKC LEGACY He will be convicted and repent.
I understand, the Family of Late Dr Chilima have not commented on the FAKE report that was produced, This is the time to ask the president simple questions about his lies,
Who told him that the plain arrived in Mzuzu?
Who told him of thick forest, who told him to stop the search until morning?
TO UTM family and Malawians
I believe this is the most important time to stand firm with Mary Chilima and SKC to embrace his vision and passion. Chilima needs us now and most. Thank you for the idea to ensure that SKC NAME shouldn’t die as MCP wanted. They are against everything that speak SKC. KILLING ALREADY DEAD MAN
Mary Chilima is in Pain
Disclaimer: The views expressed in the article are those of the author not necessarily of The Maravi Post or Editor
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-President Lazarus Chakwera on Monday, February 11, 2025 called on African Union leaders and states to strive for an “Africa that is funded by Africans”.
Chakwera said this during the African Union Development Agency (AUDA – NEPAD) 42nd Session of Heads of State and Government Orientation Committee (HSGOC) virtual meeting, that was hosted by the Arab Republic of Egypt.
The Malawi leader highlighted the abundance of natural resources at Africa’s disposal, including water and precious minerals, which ought to be fully utilized to make the continent the “centre of development” and the hope for the next generation to come.
Chakwera added that mining exploits on the continent should be used to “propel the development of Africa rather than the development of others”, and he reinforced Malawi’s commitment to attaining these goals, in the second ten-year implementation plan of the African Union’s (AU) Agenda 2063 – a blue print to transforming the continent.
He emphasized the existence of various regional trade corridors under construction, that need to be put to good use in order to cement integration among AU member states and boost trade and development opportunities.
President Chakwera also took the opportunity to applaud the government of Zambia, represented by His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema during the meeting, for adopting reforms aimed at creating opportunities for the youth and implementing curricular reforms, to equip them with skills that will drive meaningful development on the continent.
President Hichilema was delivering his report on the preparations for “World Skills Day”, which will take place in Livingstone, Zambia this year.
Chairperson of the summit President Abdul Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt thanked the member states for entrusting him to head the AUDA – NEPAD committee since Novemb
Africa must develop Africa, says Malawi President Lazarus Chakwera
Malawi President Challenged
By Twink Jones Gadama
In a passionate call to action, President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera of Malawi has urged African leaders to strive for an “Africa that is funded by Africans.” Speaking during the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) 42nd Session of Heads of State and Government Orientation Committee (HSGOC) virtual meeting, President Chakwera emphasized the need for Africa to harness its natural resources to drive development.
“Africa is endowed with abundant natural resources, including water and precious minerals,” President Chakwera noted. “These resources should be fully utilized to make Africa the center of development and the hope for the next generation.”
President Chakwera also stressed the importance of utilizing mining exploits on the continent to propel Africa’s development, rather than relying on external funding. He reiterated Malawi’s commitment to achieving the goals outlined in the African Union’s (AU) Agenda 2063, a blueprint for transforming the continent.
The Malawian leader also highlighted the existence of various regional trade corridors under construction, which he believes can cement integration among AU member states and boost trade and development opportunities. He praised the government of Zambia for adopting reforms aimed at creating opportunities for the youth and implementing curricular reforms to equip them with skills that will drive meaningful development on the continent.
The virtual meeting was attended by several African leaders, including President Abdul Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt, who chairs the AUDA-NEPAD committee. President El-Sisi thanked member states for entrusting him with the leadership role and highlighted Egypt’s progress in improving infrastructure and creating jobs for the youth.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, emphasized the need for peace to be at the core of Africa’s development agenda. He also called for an end to foreign aid dependency, echoing President Chakwera’s sentiments.
Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AFDB), confirmed his commitment to supporting Agenda 2063 and highlighted the bank’s investments in infrastructure development projects, including a trade corridor between Malawi, Zambia, and Mozambique. The AFDB plans to invest an additional USD 21 billion in infrastructure development projects in Africa.
Benedict Orama, President of the African Export-Import (Afrexim) Bank, pledged to increase financial investment on the African continent from USD 21 billion to USD 40 billion by 2026. He noted that the funding has facilitated the implementation of infrastructural development programs that address the fundamental needs of Africans.
The virtual meeting was also attended by leaders from Kenya, South Africa, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Senegal, and Equatorial Guinea, among others. President Chakwera was accompanied by Hon. Nancy Tembo, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and other ministry officials.
…..The other three schools with similar offenses remain closed….
….Its selective justice and politics at play……
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Chaminade Marianist Secondary School of the catholic church in Lilongwe is still in full operation despite the Malawi government, through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education ordering the closure of the school based on administering corporal punishment and governance issues.
On January 17, this year, The Public Relations Officer for the Ministry, Mphatso Nkuonera confirmed the closure of Chaminade and described the use of corporal punishment as “archaic and against the laws of the country”.
“it is true that the ministry has closed Chaminade Marianist Secondary School for administering corporal punishment, as you are aware, this act is against the laws of country and the closure is effective immediately,” Nkuonera said.
However, despite the closure notice to the public, Chaminade is in full operation without remorse.
The Maravi Post sneaked into the school’s premises on Monday afternoon whereas classes were normal as if nothing had happened.
“It was just an order on the paper, nothing changed here. Classes were just disrupted in the first week of the closure notice but in following weeks, life became normal till now,” one of the inside workers told The Maravi Post.
The development comes when other two schools in Lilongwe and one in Mangochi were closed last year on similar offenses remain closed.
When contacted for comment, Education Ministry publicist Nkuonera pushed the matter to Principal Secretary for Basic and Secondary Education Chimbwete Phiri who failed to respond on several attempts.
This publication also made several attempts to get feedback from the Education Minister for Basic and Secondary Madalitso Mbauwa Wirima who failed to pick up her mobile phone on several attempts with WhatsApp message.
But sources within the Education Ministry told The Maravi Post that the matter was beyond officials including the minister herself.
“Look, Chaminade is a catholic school whose church has a political influence in Malawi. Soon after the closure notice was issued, heads of the catholic church including bishops pressed hard Malawi government leadership to reverse the decision.
“Due to politics at play, the ministry is failing even to visit the school premises over the closure notice. This is pure selective justice we are witnessing currently. The child (victim) went through a lot but no one at the school has been taken to task because is the catholic church,” worried a female Capitol Hill official in the Ministry of Education.
She queried further, “There are other three schools closed on similar offenses but they did not defy any closure order. What’s so special about Chaminade? What message is the Ministry of Education sending to schools on the promotion of good governance”.
After the closure, the country’s Civil Society Education Coalition (CSEC) commended the Ministry’s action and argued that the decision aligned with both moral and legal imperatives, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to upholding the rights of children and ensuring compliance with the law.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, January 18, 2025 and signed by CSEC chairman and Executive Director Limbani Nsapoto and Benedicto Kondowe respectively said, “The Ministry of Education (MoE) has taken a clear stance against corporal punishment, a practice that is explicitly prohibited under Section 19(1) of the Constitution of Malawi, which guarantees freedom from torture and degrading treatment, as well as Section 4(e) of the Education Act, 2013, which mandates non-violent disciplinary methods.”
CSEC lauded Education Ministry, “This decision is further supported by international instruments such as Article 19 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UN CRC) and Article 16 of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC), which obligate states to protect children from all forms of abuse and violence.
“The Committee on the Rights of the Child defines corporal punishment as any use of physical force intended to cause pain or discomfort, including actions like hitting and degrading nonphysical punishments”.
CSEC observed further, “Under Article 19(1) of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), states are obligated to protect children from all forms of physical and mental violence.
“The CRC interprets this to include corporal punishment and urges its prohibition in all settings, as emphasized in General Comment No. 8 (2006)”.
Read the statement further, “Importantly, this ban on corporal punishment does not imply a prohibition on all disciplinary measures; rather, it promotes non-violent, constructive approaches that uphold performance and quality standards while respecting the dignity and rights of the child.
“While the closure of the school is justifiable given the circumstances, it is important to ensure that the interests of the affected students are duly protected. CSEC urges the Ministry to prioritize quick and effective remedial measures to support the students and restore the school’s operations”.
In addition, CSEC emphasized the need to assess whether the closure of the school was the only viable remedy in this situation.
Chaminade Marianist Secondary School became the first school to be closed by the Ministry in 2025 for failing to comply with the laws of the country.
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-President Lazarus Chakwera has accepted an invitation from Mary Chilima to grace the official launch of the Saulos Klaus Chilima (SKC) Foundation on Wednesday, February 12, 2024 in capital Lilongwe.
Presidential Press Secretary Anthony Kasunda told Zodiak Online that the invitation from the widow of the late vice president has also been extended to First Lady Monica Chakwera.
Kasunda said the gesture from Madam Chilima is a great honour to president and the first lady, as they see the event as an opportunity to reflect on the late Saulos Klaus Chilima’s contributions to the country’s development.
The SKC Foundation is a non-partisan, non-political organisation dedicated to advancing the vision and goals of the late vice president.
Chilima said in an exclusive interview in Lilongwe that the Foundation will be launched on 12 February 2025, which would have been Chilima’s 52 birthday.
Chilima said the SKC Foundation, is a duly registered Trust which will be overseen by a Board of Trustees, whose mission is to support the fulfilment of the vision and goals of the late Chilima in a ‘non-partisan and non-political’ manner.
The late Vice President died in a plane crash together with eight others on 10 June 2024 in Chikangawa Forest on their way to a funeral in Nkhata-Bay.
Chakwera to grace launch of SKC Foundation in honour of late VP Chilima
By Twink Jones Gadama
President Lazarus Chakwera has accepted an invitation to attend the official launch of the Saulos Klaus Chilima (SKC) Foundation, a non-partisan, non-political organisation dedicated to advancing the vision and goals of the late vice president. The launch is scheduled to take place this Wednesday in Lilongwe.
According to Presidential Press Secretary Anthony Kasunda, the invitation was extended to the President and First Lady Monica Chakwera by Mary Chilima, the widow of the late vice president. Kasunda described the gesture as a “great honour” to the President and the First Lady, adding that they see the event as an opportunity to reflect on the late Chilima’s contributions to the country’s development.
The SKC Foundation aims to preserve the legacy of the late vice president, who passed away in a plane crash last year. The foundation’s launch is expected to bring together various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organisations, and the private sector.
Political analyst Ceaser Kondowe has hailed President Chakwera’s decision to attend the launch, describing it as a demonstration of “maturity leadership” that will help to foster national unity.
The launch of the SKC Foundation is seen as a significant event in Malawi’s political calendar, as it seeks to promote the values and principles of the late vice president. The event is expected to be attended by high-profile dignitaries, including government ministers, members of parliament, and traditional leaders.
In a statement, the Chilima family expressed their gratitude to President Chakwera for accepting the invitation, saying that it is a testament to the President’s commitment to unity and reconciliation.
The launch of the SKC Foundation is scheduled to take place at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe. The event is expected to start at 9:00 am, with President Chakwera expected to deliver a keynote address.
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Ministry of Education has disclosed that unregistered teacher will not be allowed to practice the professional effective April 1, 2025.
Director of Quality Assurance Services in the Ministry of Education, Associate Professor Golden Msilimba told the news conference on Monday, February 10 in the capital Lilongwe along side with Teacher’s Council of Malawi (TCM) and Directorate of Teacher Education and Development that the move aims to tame unqualified teachers who are contributing towards low quality of education in the country.
Associate Professor Msilimba said in it’s one year operation, following establishment of it’s secretariat in December 2023, and subsequent operations in January 2024, TCM has of today received 6053 application from student teachers for indexing, 93372 teachers applied for registration and 42844 applied for licencing.
He said by 15 February, all application forms shall have been processed and thereafter registration roll will be open for verification by registrants both physically and online.
“By 31st March, we shall have the final document with all registered teachers and education administrators, and come 1st April, the law will be in full force, no unregistered teacher will be allowed to practice,” Msilimba said.
He disclosed that manual application has delayed issuance of registration certificates and licences, as data entry clerks need to capture the information on forms into their system.
“Registration is done once, but licencing will be done every three years, teachers will be paying K15,000 every year and after three years they will just be getting the licence after cumulatively paying K45,000 as fees for renewing licence,” Associate Professor Msilimba added.
In her remarks, TCM Registrar, Grace Mphandamkoko said, the number of registered teachers shows very few are remaining and the are hoping will register by 31st March.
She has since encouraged all the unregistered teachers to do it online to hasten the process of registering them.
Director of Teacher Education and Development in the Ministry of Education, Dr Zizwa Msukuma said their directorate will ensure teachers continue undergoing Continuous Professional Development (CPD) as per the requirement, and the same will be captured by TCM, which will warrant them renewal of their licences.
In a candid address to his cabinet ministers at State House during an impromptu meeting held on Sunday midi night, President Lazarus Chakwera of Malawi expressed his discomfort with being referred to as “Ngwazi,” a title historically reserved for revered leaders like Kamuzu Banda and Bingu wa Mutharika. Chakwera’s remarks come amid growing concerns about his leadership effectiveness and the political landscape as the country approaches the next election cycle.
The late Hastings Kamuzu Banda
During the meeting, Chakwera emphasized that he does not consider himself worthy of the title “Ngwazi,” which translates to “great leader” in Chichewa. “I have failed, and I know so,” he stated, urging his ministers to advise supporters of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) to refrain from using the title in reference to him.
“Using such a name to me is an insult to the word itself,” he added, reflecting on the significant legacies left by his predecessors.
Chakwera’s acknowledgment of his perceived shortcomings as a leader marks a significant moment in his presidency, which began in June 2020 after a hard-fought election that saw him oust former President Peter Mutharika.
The president’s admission of failure resonates with many Malawians who have expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of governance, economic challenges, and rising corruption.
The president’s comments also come at a time when political tensions are escalating in Malawi. Chakwera’s administration has faced criticism for its handling of various issues, including the economy, healthcare, and education.
Many citizens have voiced their frustrations over the rising cost of living and the government’s inability to deliver on its promises. As a result, Chakwera’s popularity has waned, leading to calls for a more effective and responsive government.
In his address, Chakwera also expressed his concerns about the potential candidacy of Peter Mutharika in the upcoming elections. Mutharika, who served as president from 2014 to 2020, has remained a significant figure in Malawian politics, and his return to the political arena could pose a challenge to Chakwera’s leadership.
The president indicated that measures must be taken to prevent Mutharika from contesting, suggesting that the proposed age bill could be a viable solution.
The age bill, which seeks to impose age limits on presidential candidates, has been a contentious topic in Malawian politics. Proponents argue that it would ensure a new generation of leaders, while opponents view it as a politically motivated move aimed at sidelining experienced politicians like Mutharika.
Chakwera’s support for the bill underscores his determination to bar Peter Mutharika from contesting as he is geared to win the firth coming elections.
Our source indicated that the main agenda of the meeting was to discus Mutharika’s possible ways of barring him from standing.
He stated that billions of kwachas have been put aside to bribe Members of Parliament,Judges,media houses,chiefs,police just to mention a few.
As the political climate intensifies, Chakwera’s administration faces the dual challenge of addressing public discontent while navigating the complexities of party politics.
The president’s call for unity among his ministers and supporters is crucial as the MCP prepares for the electoral battle ahead.
Chakwera emphasized the importance of presenting a united front, stating, “We must work together to ensure that our party remains strong and this Mutharika must not stand no matter what.”
In addition to addressing internal party dynamics, Chakwera’s administration must also contend with external pressures, including economic challenges exacerbated by the global pandemic.
The Malawian economy has struggled to recover, with rising inflation and unemployment rates affecting the livelihoods of many citizens.
Chakwera’s government has been criticized for its handling of economic policies, and the president acknowledged the need for more effective strategies to stimulate growth and improve living conditions.
Chakwera’s remarks at State House reflect a broader recognition of the challenges facing his administration. By openly discussing his failures and the need for change, the president aims to foster a sense…of accountability within his government. However, the road ahead remains fraught with obstacles, and the success of his leadership will ultimately depend on his ability to address the concerns of the Malawian people.
As the political landscape evolves, the MCP must also navigate the complexities of coalition-building and alliances with other parties. The upcoming elections will be a critical test for Chakwera and his administration, as they seek to maintain their grip on power in the face of mounting opposition.
The president’s call for unity and collaboration among his ministers is a crucial step in preparing for the electoral battle ahead. By acknowledging his shortcomings and expressing a willingness to learn from his mistakes, Chakwera may be able to regain the trust of some of his critics.
However, the task ahead will not be easy. Chakwera’s administration must contend with a multitude of challenges, including a struggling economy, a disillusioned electorate, and a resurgent opposition.
As Malawi approaches the next election cycle, one thing is clear: the country is at a crossroads. The choices made by its leaders in the coming months will have far-reaching consequences for the future of the nation.
…. Whose interests is the Blantyre City Council serving?
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The controversy surrounding the future of Kamba market in Blantyre City has taken a new twist as the investor CPI over the weekend was on the ground clearing the area in preparation for the construction of an uptown market complete with a filling station.
The development sent shock waves down the spines of legally housed tenants and those that looked up to the site their source of livelihood since they were born and inherited businesses from the parents.
What started as a rumour was validated by the Blantyre City Council’s decision the decision to issue 30-day eviction notices to vendors at Kamba Market in November 2024 in letters that had neither a date nor signature.
“It was strange that a city council of Blantyre council caliber could do this. The only legit thing about the communication was the city letterhead coupled with the identities of those tasked with the responsibility to deliver the letters” observed Emmanuel Somozani who has been running a business at Kamba market for the past 20 years.
However, the sham of the notices did not come as a surprise to Somozani who alongside Chonde , Leah Tsamwa and Gilbert Mbiri confronted the city fathers in their letter dated August 19, 2024 after they got a wind of the sale arrangement.
In the above letter they requested the council to be confirm that they had already identified an investor to develop Kamba and Chilomoni markets.
The qoutate lawful Kamba market users also wrote the council on November 20, 204 after receiving the unsigned vacation notices demanding transparency and accountability in the whole process.
“ It was our expectation that the council should have engaged us in the whole process. A fair process could have started with the authorities offering us the opportunity. In an event that we would not meet their standards then they could have proceeded to call for proposals from interested investors. But in our case we just got information that the council has already identified a Lilongwe based investor,” read the letter in part.
“After a discussion between the said investor, a resolution was made to give us land belonging to a Blantyre based investor by the name Faizal Aboo, it was ironic since we were made to believe that the market was given to a Lilongwe based investor after some time we were told the period to vacate has been extended from December 31, 2024 to March 30 2025” said another concerned vendor.
But before the agreed deadline, the council has allowed CPI to access the ground and over the weekend they were cutting down trees and developed that has shocked the vendors that were expecting meaningful engagement and through due process to be followed.
Glaring contradictions
According to CPI’s application letter dated January 29,2024 the investor read in the Public Sector Reforms document that the Blantyre City Council is looking for an investor to develop Kamba market into a One-stop Commercial Center hence their application.
In an unparalleled opportunity the Blantyre city council granted CPI wish just like that !
In the application CPI states that it intended to spend MK1.5 billion to develop Kamba market but asked to be excepted from payment of land fees. They also said they will be paying 10 percent profit from the filling station.
“From experience having developed land in several palaces in the country this would translate into MK1.5 million revenue to the city council” said the letter signed by Tregia Mushani.
However, in letter dated December 10, 2024 signed by Blantyre City Council Chief Executive Officer Dennis Chiseu the city alleged that the investor had pledged to spend MK2.5 billion in developing Kamba market while the city council would be recking in MK2.5 million revenue from the project.
This information is contained in a response to the Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives(CDEDI) letter demanding disclosure of information pertaining to the controversy surrounding the Kamba market signed by its Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa.
Legal or illegal project?
According to Chiseu by December 20, 2024 the investor was yet to deliver the key documents to the approval of the project namely; the financial feasibility and the environmental and social impact assessment.
For starters the Environmental Management Act makes it mandatory that projects of such magnitude and natural environmental impact assessment is a must.
Should we then assume that it has been done in under a month?
Secondly, such a public land cannot change hands in a mist like that. “ Where on earth can someone be allowed to access public land using just a piece of an A4 paper like that one ? The process should have been competitive. It should have started with an advertisement in the newspaper requesting for expression of interest or calling for proposals. It’s bizarre that in the CEO saw that piece of paper attractive ! This is outrageous to say the least,” said Gift Yesaya another vendor.
Now between Mr Mushani and Chiseu who do we believe?
It is not clear what sort of arrangement is this is it a lease or just a gentleman’s agreement since both PPDA and PPP were not involved?
Nonetheless, the CEO said this project was approved by the full council way back in 2020 but the application was made in 2024.
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Parlimentary Committee on defence has lauded President Lazarus Chakwera for ordering Malawi Defence Force (MDF) soldiers to return home from DRC peace keeping mission.
The Committee however said will go ahead with its scheduled meeting with the MDF Commander to discuss the safety of the country’s soldiers.
Chairperson of the committee, Salim Bagus, told The Maravi Post on Sunday that Chakwera made a right decision over MDF soldiers safety.
According to Bagus, the committee is very pleased with the president’s decision to repatriate soldiers from DRC.
“We will continue to meet with the MDF commander to discuss other issues, but we are pleased with the president’s suggestion to order the repatriation of soldiers from DRC,” said Bagus
He further said that repatriation of soldiers will bring proper preparations before returning.
The Malawi defense force suffered the loss of three soldiers in DRC during a fight with the M23 group recently.
The Parliament committee on Defense was the first to make a repatriation call soon after the announcement of the death of three soldiers.
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Mtsogoleri wa dziko lino Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera wachenjeza kuti achotsa ntchito nduna zonse zosagwira bwino ntchito.
Poyankhura ku msonkhano omwe amachititsa pa sukulu ya sekondale ya Malembo ku Lilongwe, Chakwera wachenjezanso akuluakulu ena a boma kuti sasekelera chibwana cha mtundu wina ulionse.
“Chifukwa ndikudziwa kuti m’maundunamu m’mapezeka timadailekitala tina tochitira mwano mabwana awo. Tomanena kuti iwowo a PS sangawauze zochita kaamba koti amadziwana ndi anduna, Chief of Staff kapena ma advisor ku State House, sindifuna chibwana cha mtundu umenewoyi.
“Ena nde kumachita kunena kuti ndimadziwana ndi Pulezidenti… Chibwana chimenecho chatha… Muchotsedwera limodzi,” waopseza motero Chakwera.
Pomaliza, Dr Chakwera wati: “Mulungu salakwitsa ndipo sanatiike m’boma kuti tilephere. koma tilikutumukirani ndipo n’zotheka.
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