Category Archives: Politics

Malawi has a multi-party system with over 40 registered political parties.The political process in Malawi is such that parties are voted into power. Parties participate in an electoral process. The parties with the most representation in the National Assembly are the People’s Party (PP), Malawi Congress Party (MCP), United Democratic Front (UDF), and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).

President of Malawi 

Under the country’s 1966, 1994 and 1995 constitutions, the President is executive head of state. The first President was elected by the National Assembly, but later presidents were elected in direct popular elections for a five-year term. In the event of a vacancy, the Vice-President becomes President.

  Denotes Vice-President acting as President
? President
(Birth–Death)		 Portrait Tenure Elected Political affiliation
(at time of appointment)
Took office Left office Time in Office
1 Hastings Banda
(1899–1997) [1]		 Dr HK Banda, first president of Malawi.jpg 6 July 1966 24 May 1994 27 years,319 days Malawi Congress Party
2 Bakili Muluzi
(1942–)		 Muluzi.png 24 May 1994 24 May 2004 10 years,3 days 1994
1999		 United Democratic Front
3 Bingu wa Mutharika
(1934–2012)		 Mutharika at Met.jpg 24 May 2004 5 April 2012
(died in office.)		 7 years,316 days 2004 United Democratic Front
2009 Democratic Progressive Party [2]
4 Joyce Banda
(1949–)		 Joyce Banda August 2012.jpg 7 April 2012 31 May 2014 2 years,54 days – People’s Party
5 Peter Mutharika
(1939–)		 Peter Mutharika 2011 (cropped).jpg 31 May 2014 Incumbent 4 years,103 days 2014 Democratic Progressive Party

Standards

Opinion, Politics

Of Chakwera’s divisive rhetoric: A recipe for Malawi’s political disaster

Burnett Munthali Leave a comment

LILONGWE- (MaraviPost)-In a shocking display of insensitivity and irresponsibility, former President Lazarus Chakwera has once again proven himself to be a master of divisive rhetoric, sowing seeds of discord and discontent among Malawians.

His latest outburst, delivered at a funeral ceremony in Malembo village on April 6, 2026, is a clear indication that he is more interested in stirring up emotions and creating divisions than in promoting unity and peace.

“We are not like others, it’s not a privilege we should be doing this,” Chakwera said, referencing those who fought for Malawi’s liberation.

His statement, laden with innuendo and veiled threats, is a blatant attempt to whip up emotions and create divisions among Malawians.

It’s a cheap political trick that has been used by many a failed leader before, but it’s astonishing that someone of Chakwera’s stature and experience would stoop so low.

The implications of Chakwera’s statement are clear: he is suggesting that those who fought for Malawi’s independence are somehow less worthy or less deserving of respect than those who came after them.

It’s a narrative that is not only divisive but also ahistorical.

The men and women who fought for Malawi’s freedom did so at great personal cost, and it’s an insult to their memory to have their sacrifices reduced to mere political rhetoric.

But Chakwera’s statement is not just an insult to the nation’s founding fathers; it’s also a clear indication that he has not accepted the outcome of the September 16 elections.

He seems to be suggesting that the people of Malawi made a mistake by voting for his successor, and that he is still the rightful leader of the country.

This is a dangerous and reckless narrative that has the potential to create unrest and instability in the country.

Citizens for Credible Elections (CFCE), a group representing Malawian citizens, has rightly condemned Chakwera’s statement, describing it as “divisive, inflammatory, and having the potential to create unrest among Malawians.”

The group has called on Chakwera to refrain from making statements that could be divisive and instead promote unity and peace among Malawians.

But Chakwera is not just a liability to himself; he is a liability to the country as a whole.

His actions and statements have the potential to undo the progress that Malawi has made in recent years, and it’s time that he is held accountable for his actions.

The people of Malawi deserve better than a former president who is more interested in stirring up divisions than in promoting unity and peace.

They deserve a leader who is committed to healing the nation’s wounds, not deepening them.

As a leader, Chakwera has a responsibility to foster healing and reconciliation, not sow discord.

But he has failed to live up to this responsibility, and it’s time that he is called out for his actions.

In conclusion, Chakwera’s statement is a recipe for disaster in Malawi.

It’s a divisive and inflammatory rhetoric that has the potential to create unrest and instability in the country.

The people of Malawi must reject this kind of politics and demand better from their leaders.

Politics

Trump warns of attacks as Hormuz deal deadline nears

Burnett Munthali

TEHRAN-(MaraviPost)-US President Donald Trump has warned of severe consequences if Iran doesn’t reopen the Strait of Hormuz by Tuesday’s deadline.

Trump stated that the US has plans to destroy Iranian power plants and bridges if the country doesn’t agree to a deal.

Iran has rejected the latest ceasefire proposal, describing it as “not good enough”.

The country’s response includes 10 demands, such as an end to conflicts in the region, a protocol for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, lifting of sanctions, and reconstruction.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway, with around a fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas supply passing through it.

Iran’s closure of the strait has caused significant disruptions to global energy markets.

Trump’s deadline has sparked concerns about potential war crimes, with critics arguing that attacking civilian power plants would be a violation of international law.

Trump has dismissed these concerns, stating he’s “not at all” worried about it.

The situation remains volatile, with both sides trading threats and accusations.

Iran has warned that it will not accept a temporary ceasefire and is seeking a permanent end to the war.

The international community is urging restraint, with mediators attempting to broker a deal.

Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are involved in the talks, aiming for a 45-day ceasefire that could lead to a broader peace agreement.

Opinion, Politics

A scramble for popularity opens a can of worms for Tamia Ja, Kamangila, Chigoba Bakili Muluzi TV

Rick Dzida

In recent days, there have been several confrontational remarks made by prominent figures, including Tamia Ja, Alexious Kamangila, and Bakili Muluzi TV. It is quite intriguing to observe this trend.

Tamia is a content creator on various social media platforms, with a focus on addressing social and economic issues, particularly scandals involving high-profile individuals.

Alexious Kamangila is an esteemed legal professional who received his formal education at Chancellor College, the University of Malawi.

Prior to pursuing his PhD at the University of Galway in Ireland, he held positions at several private companies, including Mbeta Associates.

Additionally, he worked as a legal advocate, representing disadvantaged clients in a variety of legal matters.

Alex has gained recognition on his Facebook page for uncovering instances of corruption in the judiciary and other government organizations, in order to advance the battle against this vice.

As an example, he previously labeled Judges Chikopa and Manda as corrupt judges.

Chigoba Bakili Muluzi TV (BMV) is a channel run by an anonymous individual, focused on delivering political and historical information to the public.

When ex-President Bakili Muluzi disassociated himself from Bakili Muluzi TV, it became evident that he had no ties to this channel.

There is a belief that BMV was instrumental in removing the Chakwera administration from office by highlighting instances of poor governance and promoting the agenda of the Democratic Progressive Party.

Although they have varying goals, the trio remains widely favored by numerous people in Malawi.

Recently, there has been a back-and-forth exchange of words among Jamia, Kamangila and BMV regarding their efforts to establish themselves as the most popular.

Regrettably, this exchange of words has put the trio in a vulnerable position where they have disclosed their personal and private matters.

In the midst of their conversation, it was revealed that Kamangila had gotten his maid pregnant and they now have a child together. As a result, their official marriage came to an end. Kamangila has not denied this accusation.

In trying to tarnish Kamangila’s image, it was observed that Kamangila ran away from Malawi from a perjury case to Ireland where it is also alleged that he impregnated his senior.

In response, Kamangila dismissed the BMV accusations by implying that his education level is subpar due to his inadequate proficiency in English.

This situation has now become intriguing as Kamangila continues to criticize Tamia for allegedly accepting bribes from influential figures like Mpinganjira and Bushiri in order to create her content

Observing this, Kamangila could potentially delve deeper into exposing her true self. However, Tamia countered by disclosing that she is not a virgin and has a child. She then shared that she has embraced her identity as a lesbian and is financially stable.

The recent trend of exchanging insults has caused confusion among followers. In reality, these followers are not interested in the personal scandals of celebrities.

In a nutshell, the trio is recommended to cease exchanging offensive remarks, and instead focus on delivering their message objectively without personal attacks.

Opinion, Politics

When timelines collapse: Serious questions over Shepherd Bushiri’s claims against Peter Sambo…Who is lying?

Maravi Post Author

By Falles Kamanga

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-In a recent Times interview, Prophet Shepherd Bushiri alleged that his former employee, Peter Sambo, was dismissed from his ministry for allegedly plotting to kidnap his two daughters Raphaella Bushiri and the late Israella Bushiri. Sambo was replaced by Kelvin Sulugwe.

The claim, dramatic and emotional in nature, suggests a deep internal betrayal within the Prophet’s inner circle. Yet, when tested against verifiable timelines, public records, and widely reported events in Malawi and South Africa, serious inconsistencies emerge.

Shepherd Bushiri relocated from Malawi to South Africa in 2015 to lead his Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG) ministry in Pretoria. At that time, Israella Bushiri, his first daughter, was about two to 3 years old, while Raphaella had not yet been born.

Available accounts indicate that Peter Sambo left Bushiri’s ministry around July 2016, roughly two to three months before Raphaella’s birth in September or October 2016.

This raises a crucial question: if Sambo had already left the ministry before Raphaella existed, then which children were allegedly under threat at the time of his dismissal? Only Israella was alive at that point. Any suggestion that both daughters were simultaneously at risk contradicts the verifiable timeline and undermines the narrative of an ongoing kidnapping threat linked to Sambo.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟖 𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐰𝐢 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧: 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐥𝐲 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐬 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞, 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐅𝐞𝐚𝐫

In March 2018, Bushiri publicly announced that his children would be relocated to Malawi. The move was framed as an expression of love for the country and confidence in its systems, not as a response to an active threat.

Yet, later claims suggest that even after the relocation, Sambo allegedly continued plotting their abduction. If the threat were real and immediate, why was the relocation presented as symbolic rather than urgent and security-driven?

During the same period, reports emerged of Bushiri transporting high-value assets including luxury vehicles such as Bentleys, Rolls-Royces, Maseratis, and Mercedes-Benz G-Wagons from South Africa to Malawi.

Observers interpreted this as part of a broader strategic repositioning, further challenging the narrative of an immediate, active kidnapping threat.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐲𝐫𝐞 𝐀𝐢𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭:

Another major claim repeated in the interview is that South African nationals were intercepted at Blantyre Airport, allegedly linked to a kidnapping plot involving Bushiri’s children and coordinated with Peter Sambo.

However, alternative accounts exist in public reporting. In a widely covered episode, South African journalist Ntombizodwa Patience Makhoba, working for City Press, was detained at Blantyre Airport while attempting to enter Malawi on a reporting assignment. Authorities cited entry document issues, and she was later deported on the same flight she arrived on. Media coverage detailed her ordeal, including time spent in custody before deportation.

Looking at Makhoba’s profile and picture and public reporting work, she does not fit the image of someone who could plausibly carry out a kidnapping. Her professional role as a journalist, as well as her public presence and demeanor, do not suggest involvement in criminal abduction activities

The competing narratives create a critical gap. One version frames the incident as a foiled kidnapping plot targeting the Bushiri children. Another frames it as a blocked journalistic investigation by a reporter trying to cover the Bushiri story. Both cannot simultaneously stand as uncontested fact, yet in public retellings, the kidnapping angle has often been elevated while the documented journalist account is less emphasized.

The Persistent Return to Peter Sambo
Perhaps the most striking element in this matter is the persistence of Peter Sambo’s name.

More than a decade after his reported departure from Bushiri’s ministry, his name continues to appear in serious allegations involving child abduction plots, foreign operatives, and security threats spanning Malawi and South Africa. Yet the supporting timeline, when laid out clearly, repeatedly raises inconsistencies in dates, roles, and sequence of events.

Why does a dismissed employee from years ago continue to be positioned at the center of such grave allegations, despite timelines that do not consistently support the narrative?

𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧

Shepherd Bushiri’s allegations are powerful, emotionally charged, and serious. But when measured against the 2015–2016 ministry timeline, Raphaella’s birth after Sambo’s departure, the 2018 Malawi relocation narrative, and conflicting accounts of the Blantyre Airport incident, the story becomes deeply inconsistent.

In matters involving child safety, criminal allegations, and public trust, precision is not optional. When timelines do not align, public figures have a responsibility to provide clarity, not repetition of claims that remain difficult to independently verify.

Until such clarity is provided, the public is left not with certainty, but with unresolved contradictions that demand closer scrutiny.

Further reading:Report on the south african reporter deportation.

https://www.news24.com/citypress/news/my-ordeal-in-pursuit-of-bushiri-city-press-reporter-detained-in-malawi-20190226

Politics

MEC’s defiance of High Court ruling: A blow to judicial authority, rule of law

Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-It has now been four months since the High Court, under the stewardship of Judge Simeon Mdeza, delivered a clear and unequivocal ruling ordering the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to relocate its headquarters from Lilongwe to Blantyre.

This ruling came after MEC challenged President Peter Mutharika’s executive order mandating the relocation.

The court dismissed MEC’s application and affirmed the president’s directive, expecting prompt compliance.

Yet, despite the passage of significant time, MEC has obstinately refused to move, flagrantly disregarding the court’s authoritative mandate.

This act of defiance raises serious concerns about MEC’s respect for judicial authority, the rule of law, and the very foundations of democratic governance in Malawi.

The judiciary in Malawi stands as a pillar of justice and fairness, charged with interpreting the law and ensuring that all entities, regardless of their status, abide by the rule of law.

The High Court’s decision on this matter was unambiguous, reflecting not only a legal interpretation but a binding order. The expectation is simple: MEC must comply.

Failure to do so is not merely a bureaucratic oversight but a direct challenge to the supremacy of the judiciary and the legal framework that governs the nation.

What makes MEC’s continued refusal even more egregious is the fact that the commission’s chairperson is herself a judge. A judge, by training and profession, is sworn to uphold the law, respect court orders, and embody the principles of justice.

The chairperson’s position should be one of the highest example in demonstrating obedience to the courts.

Instead, this scenario paints a troubling picture of selective compliance and undermines public confidence in both the commission and the judiciary. If a judge leading MEC can choose to ignore a clear court order, it sends a dangerous message that legal rulings can be flouted with impunity.

The role of MEC is fundamentally tied to the credibility and integrity of Malawi’s electoral processes.

Its mandate includes ensuring transparent, fair, and accountable elections, which are cornerstones of a functioning democracy.

However, respect for the judiciary and the legal system is equally critical. When MEC chooses to defy a court order, it risks eroding its legitimacy and, by extension, the public’s trust in the electoral system.

The commission’s actions—or lack thereof—jeopardize the very democratic values it is supposed to protect.

Moreover, the principle of separation of powers in a democratic state demands that the executive, legislature, and judiciary operate within their respective domains, respecting the boundaries and decisions of each other to maintain balance and order.

The High Court’s ruling was a clear exercise of judicial authority, and MEC’s non-compliance directly challenges this balance.

By refusing to relocate, MEC is not only defying the president’s directive, which the court has validated, but it is also undermining the judiciary’s role as a check and balance in governance.

It is important to emphasize the legal implications of MEC’s continued non-compliance.

The court’s order is binding and enforceable. Failure to obey such orders constitutes contempt of court—a serious offense under Malawian law.

Contempt of court is designed to protect the dignity, authority, and effectiveness of the judiciary. It ensures that court orders are respected and followed to preserve justice and social order.

MEC’s refusal to move its headquarters to Blantyre, therefore, places it squarely in contempt of the High Court. This is not a mere technicality but a grave legal breach that warrants immediate remedial action.

The consequences of MEC’s contempt extend beyond legal ramifications.

They reflect a blatant disregard for governance norms and threaten to trigger a constitutional crisis.

If one of the country’s key constitutional bodies openly disrespects the judiciary, it creates a precedent for other institutions or individuals to do the same, leading to institutional breakdown and chaos.

Upholding the rule of law means ensuring that no one—not even entities entrusted with critical national responsibilities—is above the law.

It is also worth reflecting on the practical implications of MEC’s refusal to relocate.

The president’s executive order to move MEC’s headquarters to Blantyre was presumably motivated by strategic considerations, including decentralization of government functions and equitable development.

By not complying, MEC is obstructing government policy aimed at national progress.

This not only delays administrative efficiency but also portrays MEC as an institution resistant to governmental directives, thereby politicizing an entity that should ideally remain neutral and cooperative in the national interest.

The public deserves transparency and accountability from MEC regarding its failure to implement the court’s ruling. Silence or vague excuses only fuel speculation of internal disagreements, political interference, or deliberate obstructionism.

As a body funded by taxpayers and charged with safeguarding democratic processes, MEC owes the citizens clear explanations and swift corrective actions.

Its current stance undermines public faith and diminishes its stature.

It is critical for all stakeholders—the judiciary, the executive, civil society, and the general public—to demand that MEC immediately honors the court’s order.

The judiciary must consider employing stronger enforcement mechanisms, including holding MEC in contempt formally and imposing penalties if necessary.

The executive should reinforce the rule of law by supporting judicial decisions and ensuring compliance.

Civil society and the media must continue to hold MEC accountable, amplifying the call for respect of the court’s ruling.

The Malawi Electoral Commission’s refusal to relocate its headquarters to Blantyre as ordered by the High Court is a serious affront to the rule of law and judicial authority.

This defiance, coming from a commission chaired by a judge, is particularly troubling and undermines the credibility of both the judiciary and the electoral body.

Continued non-compliance risks contempt of court charges and sets a dangerous precedent that threatens democratic governance in Malawi.

It is imperative that MEC promptly complies with the court order to restore respect for legal institutions and reinforce the principles of justice and accountability that are essential for the nation’s stability and progress.

The time for excuses has long passed; MEC must now act decisively and uphold the law it is sworn to respect.

Politics

Zimbabwe’s Crocodile leader Mnangagwa eyes for life President

Burnett Munthali

HARARE-(MaraviPost)-Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa is planning to amend the constitution to extend his tenure to 2030 and possibly beyond, sparking concerns about his grip on power.

The proposed Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3 would allow Mnangagwa to claim eligibility for a third term and potentially make him president for life.

Mnangagwa’s guile and ruthlessness have earned him the nickname “the Crocodile”, and he appears determined to maintain his leadership.

The bill, which is subject to a 90-day public consultation period, would also change the way the president is elected, shifting from popular vote to parliamentary selection.

Critics argue that Mnangagwa’s intentions are driven by a desire to stay in power, rather than serving the people.

“This whole thing is driven by his desire to die in power,” said Hopewell Chin’ono, an investigative journalist and anti-corruption campaigner.

The proposed changes have sparked widespread criticism, with some comparing Mnangagwa’s rule to that of his predecessor, Robert Mugabe, who clung to power for 37 years. “It’s just repression,” said Tendai Biti, a veteran opposition politician.

Mnangagwa’s bid to extend his tenure is a far cry from the hope that briefly flickered in 2017 when he replaced Mugabe.

At the time, Mnangagwa pledged to open Zimbabwe up for business and repair relations with the international community.

However, his honeymoon was short-lived, and allegations of corruption and human rights abuses have surrounded his administration.

The US Treasury sanctioned Mnangagwa in 2024 for his involvement in “corrupt activities” and human rights abuses.

Despite the improving macroeconomic outlook, ordinary Zimbabweans continue to struggle. Economists say the economy has stayed afloat thanks to remittances from abroad and high gold prices.

The constitutional court must now decide whether a referendum on the proposed changes is necessary.

One political observer said that with or without a referendum, Zanu-PF would find it easier to pick the president through a pliant parliament than through a fractious electorate.

Opinion, Politics

My Take On It: Best medicine cabinet is found in the foods we already use and eat

Janet Karim

29 Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food. – Genesis 1:29

31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:3`

Over the past few months and some years, I have been through some serious illnesses and injuries. To some extent I have become an expert on many of the treatments for them.

To my great surprise, many of the medications prescribed (both prescribed and over-the-counter), are oftentimes found either in foods that we eat or some ingredients we add to our food when cooking.

I get into philosophical mode when I marvel and commend how human medical science has advanced since the times of our grandparents.

And then again in philosophical mode, I am amazed at how our ancestors survived without the advantage of the advances made by modern medical science.

Philosophies of past and present wonders, I am here to advise before rushing to the pharmacy the next time you or a member of your family is unwell, consider first aid from your food cabinet or refrigerator.

They turn out to be inexpensive, free of the additives of pharmaceutical scientists, and in the face of the current fuel crisis, these are in your house or a neighbor’s.

1.  The first is turmeric. Even scientists boast of this spice – found in many kitchen cupboards as a food additive – to be widely recognised for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This is because of the compound curcumin. I find it a great ingredient to reduce joint pain and arthritis. It also helps my digestion, and heart and brain health. Some doctors have even given turmeric credit to lower “bad” cholesterol, crediting the ingredients of turmeric to “improve blood flow, and reduce oxidative stress, supporting overall cardiovascular health.” I take a full teaspoon of ground turmeric into my tea before going to bed.

2. Many households have bottles of cloves that are a great food enhancement for rice and even baking. I was recently told by my Ghanaian friend/elder sister at church when she heard I had a bad tooth and gum ache. She advised me to soak a spoonful of cloves in some hot water and to chew the cloves two or three times a day. Medical science research again boasts of the spice to kill bacteria. They state that because of antimicrobial properties, cloves can help stop the growth of microorganisms like bacteria. Despite the almost chilly-taste as I chew, I have had less challenges with gum and tooth pain. This is a great boost to oral health. 

 3.  The third is Nivea, the thick skin cream used to prevent dry skin. A friend of mine visiting me from Malawi once told me, to “always have a jar of the thick Nivea in your bathroom cabinet.” She said the cream is great as a skin ointment, but works wonders for bee stings, and insect bites such as mosquitoes. The cream also works wonders for cuts, boils and other skin growths and warts. The cream contains mineral oil, paraffin, waxes, water and octyldodecanol. And this is one of the inexpensive skin creams in the pharmacies.     

 4. The fourth and my favorite is the papaya fruit (skin, fleshy fruit and seeds). The papaya enzymes found in all three sections of the fruit contain papain, which are proteolytic. These help to break down proteins and support improved digestion, bloating and give you constipation relief. I often buy papaya and have advised many mothers with young children to give them papaya fruit regularly to help in their digestive systems. Papain can also help reduce inflammation that is related to throat infection, joint issues, and post-surgical swelling.

5. The fifth is a seconder to the fourth item in our food cabinets: curing the cold and flu. Always keep plenty of fruits that are rich in vitamin C. Such fruits as oranges, tangerines, grapefruit, lemons), kiwi, strawberries, blueberries, cranberries, papaya, and mangoes, which help support the immune system. The berries are high in antioxidants and nutrients such as quercetin, which fight inflammation. Other fruits such as avocado (helps in improving blood levels), guava, sugar canes, watermelon (aid in hydration, and help reduce respiratory inflammation), bananas, and the legendary apples. Lastly the tomato, not thought of as a fruit, but is; it is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. The fruit helps in strengthening immunity against infection.

6. The only expensive item in this list is tonic water. I learned recently that drinking tonic water (not a very tasty drink due to one of its ingredients), due to small amounts of quinine, helps reduce nighttime leg cramps. The quinine in tonic water has been known to have muscle-relaxing potential. But because of the quinine, this should be used in moderation.

7. Number 7 is black tea, without sugar helps stop diarrhea.

8. Last, but not least, drink plenty of water every day. This hydrates the body, keeps you cool. But most importantly prevents you from getting headaches. 

Drinking water is highly effective for treating headaches caused by dehydration, which occurs when the body lacks sufficient fluid, causing the brain to temporarily shrink away from the skull.

Proper hydration reduces headache intensity and frequency by restoring fluid balance, preventing headaches, and reducing the severity of migraines. 

Six of the items on this list can be found readily in our homes. When I recall my maternal and paternal grandparents’ homes, there were always plenty of fruit trees in their backyards.

Thus, while we marvel and clap hands for advances in modern medical science, our ancestors had the knowledge, they just did not have a modern word for it. Stay healthy. 

Politics

South Africa’s Finance Minister stirs controversy with ‘austerity’ attire

Jones Gadama

PRETORIA-(MaraviPost)-South Africa’s Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, sparked a mix of reactions as he presented the country’s budget to parliament on Friday, clad in a jacket over a casual inner garment.

The unconventional attire was a deliberate choice, aimed at highlighting the government’s austerity measures amidst a challenging economic landscape.

Godongwana explained that his decision to dress down was a symbolic gesture, underscoring the need for fiscal discipline and restraint in government spending.

“I wanted to lead by example,” he said, emphasizing the importance of making tough decisions to ensure the country’s financial stability.

The minister’s unusual attire drew both praise and criticism, with some commending his efforts to make a statement, while others questioned the relevance of his fashion choice.

However, Godongwana remained focused on the task at hand, presenting a budget aimed at steering South Africa’s economy towards growth and sustainability.

The budget outlines measures to address pressing issues such as unemployment, inequality, and infrastructure development.

Godongwana emphasized the need for prudent financial management, citing the global economic uncertainties and domestic challenges.

As South Africa navigates these complexities, the minister’s unorthodox approach has certainly grabbed attention.

Whether his message will resonate with the public and policymakers remains to be seen, but one thing is clear – Godongwana is determined to make his mark.

The budget presentation has sparked lively discussions, with many awaiting the impact of the proposed measures on the country’s economic trajectory.

As the nation watches closely, the finance minister’s bold move may just be the start of a new era in South Africa’s economic narrative.

Development, Politics

Chakwera’s MCP regime, Bonongwe construction under fire for Mwanza Stadium shoddy works

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The former President Lazarus Chakwera and Malawi Congress Party (MCP)-led government and contractor Bonongwe Construction are under fire after the newly built Joyce Chitsulo Stadium in Mwanza developed serious structural defects just months after its commissioning.

Chakwera launched the 10,000-seater facility in September 2025 but the facility is now showing visible cracks and damaged sections, raising safety concerns among users.

Shoddy work By Bonongwe construction

A visit by this reporter revealed signs of substandard workmanship, with parts of the structure already deteriorating despite significant public funds invested in the project.

According to officials, defects began appearing within two months of handover, with the defect rate estimated at around 60 percent, prompting calls for urgent technical assessment.

Meanwhile, general public are demanding the arrest of Bonongwe contractor and be blacklisted.

Politics, Regional

US pilot rescued in daring operation after F-15 shot down over Iran

MaraviPost

TEHRAN-(MaraviPost)-A US F-15 fighter jet was shot down over Iran on April 3, 2026, sparking a high-stakes rescue mission that resulted in the safe recovery of both crew members.

The F-15E Strike Eagle was hit by Iranian forces, prompting an urgent search-and-rescue operation involving helicopters and aircraft.

One crew member, a pilot, was successfully rescued by US forces, while the second crew member, a weapon systems officer, was rescued on April 5, 2026, in a daring nighttime operation.

The rescue operation was marked by intense firefights, with US helicopters coming under small arms fire, but ultimately, both crew members were recovered safely.

US President Donald Trump confirmed the rescue, praising the bravery of the military personnel involved, and stating that the incident would not affect ongoing negotiations with Iran.

Iran had offered a reward of $60,000 for the capture of the US pilots, and state media urged civilians to assist in locating them.

The downing of the F-15 marks the first time a US manned aircraft has been shot down by enemy fire in over 20 years.