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

Obituaries, Opinion, Politics

Remembering Bingu Wa Mutharika: A legacy of economic transformation

Burnett Munthali

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Bingu Wa Mutharika, the third President of Malawi, left an indelible mark on the country’s history.

His presidency, which spanned from 2004 to 2012, was marked by significant economic reforms and initiatives that transformed Malawi’s agricultural sector and overall economy.

Mutharika’s journey to the presidency began with his appointment as Minister of Economic Planning and Development in 2002.

His expertise in economics, garnered from his work at the World Bank and other international organizations, positioned him as a credible candidate for the top job. In 2004, he won the presidential election, succeeding Bakili Muluzi.

One of Mutharika’s most notable achievements was the introduction of the Farm Input Subsidy Programme (FISP) in 2005.

This initiative provided subsidized fertilizers and seeds to smallholder farmers, leading to a significant increase in maize production and transforming Malawi from a food-deficit nation to a net exporter.

The program was hailed as a success, with Malawi’s economic growth rate averaging 6.5% between 2004 and 2009.

Mutharika’s presidency was also marked by efforts to diversify Malawi’s economy and reduce dependence on foreign aid.

He established diplomatic relations with China, opening up new avenues for investment and development.

His leadership style, characterized as results-driven and focused on tangible outcomes, earned him praise both domestically and internationally.

However, Mutharika’s second term was marred by controversy and criticism.

His refusal to devalue the Malawian kwacha, despite pressure from international donors, led to economic strain and shortages of essential goods.

His administration was also criticized for authoritarian tendencies and suppression of dissent.

Despite these challenges, Mutharika’s legacy as a champion of Malawi’s economic sovereignty and food security remains.

He was awarded the United Nations Special Millennium Development Goal Award in 2010 for his efforts to reduce hunger and poverty.

Mutharika’s impact on Malawi’s development is still felt today.

His emphasis on agricultural development and infrastructure growth laid the foundation for future economic progress.

As Malawi continues to navigate its economic journey, Mutharika’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of self-reliance and visionary leadership.

Politics

Kemi Badenoch sparks debate on Britain’s Christian Heritage

Burnett Munthali

LONDON-(MaraviPost)-Kemi Badenoch, a prominent British politician, has sparked a heated debate on the role of Christianity in shaping Britain’s identity and values.

Badenoch asserts that Britain was built on a foundation of Christian values that have guided the country’s institutions, laws, and sense of right and wrong.

She argues that these values have played a significant role in shaping the nation’s history and culture, and should be proudly acknowledged and defended.

“If we’re serious about the future of this country, we shouldn’t shy away from that heritage, we should be confident enough to embrace, promote and defend it,” Badenoch said.

Her comments have reignited a long-standing debate about the place of Christianity in modern British society, and whether the country’s Christian heritage should be celebrated or relegated to the past.

Badenoch’s remarks are likely to be seen as a challenge to the prevailing orthodoxy in some quarters, which emphasizes the importance of diversity and multiculturalism.

However, others will argue that Britain’s Christian heritage is an integral part of its identity, and that it continues to shape the country’s values and institutions.

The debate highlights the ongoing tension between tradition and diversity in British society, and raises questions about what it means to be British in the 21st century.

While some will welcome Badenoch’s comments as a necessary reaffirmation of Britain’s Christian roots, others will see them as a nostalgic and divisive attempt to impose a narrow, exclusive vision of British identity.

The debate is likely to continue, with different voices offering competing visions of Britain’s past, present, and future.

As the country grapples with questions of identity, belonging, and values, Badenoch’s comments are a reminder that the role of Christianity in shaping British culture and society remains a live and contested issue.

Her remarks are also a reflection of the growing trend among some Conservative politicians to emphasize the importance of traditional values and cultural heritage.

Whether or not one agrees with Badenoch’s views, her comments have undoubtedly added a new dimension to the debate about British identity and values.

As the nation continues to evolve and change, it remains to be seen how the country’s Christian heritage will be reconciled with its increasingly diverse and multicultural society.

One thing is certain, however: the debate sparked by Badenoch’s comments is unlikely to go away anytime soon.

It will continue to rage, with different voices offering competing visions of Britain’s past, present, and future.

The question is, which vision will ultimately prevail?

Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the debate about British identity and values is far from over.

It is a conversation that will continue to shape the country’s future, and Badenoch’s comments have ensured that it will be a lively and contested one.

As Britain navigates the challenges of the 21st century, it will be interesting to see how the country’s Christian heritage is invoked, celebrated, and contested in the years to come.

One thing is certain: the debate about British identity and values is here to stay.

And it will continue to be a defining feature of British politics and society for years to come.

The question is, what will be the outcome?

Will Britain continue to be shaped by its Christian heritage, or will it forge a new path, one that is more diverse and inclusive?

Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the debate has only just begun.

And it will be a fascinating one to watch, as Britain grapples with its identity and values in the 21st century.

The country is at a crossroads, and the direction it takes will be shaped by the competing visions of its future.

One thing is certain: the outcome will be far from certain.

And that is what makes the debate so compelling.

Britain’s future hangs in the balance, and the world will be watching as it navigates the challenges ahead.

The debate about British identity and values is a global one, and it will continue to resonate far beyond the country’s borders.

As the world watches, Britain will be defining itself, and its place in the world.

The outcome is far from certain, but one thing is clear: the debate has only just begun.

And it will be a defining feature of British politics and society for years to come.

The question is, what will be the outcome?

Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the world will be watching.

Opinion, Politics

Religious grouping PAC’s shameless misstep exposed: A call for accountability, overhaul

Jones Gadama

The hard truth is that the Public Affairs Committee (PAC) has blatantly shown its true colours by grossly misunderstanding the delicate situation involving First Vice President Jane Ansah.

Instead of exercising the critical, balanced judgment expected of a civil society organization that claims to champion Malawi’s democratic ideals, PAC has stooped to a level of recklessness that undermines public trust and foments unnecessary political tension.

It is deeply disappointing and frankly alarming that PAC would make such an irresponsible call for Malawians to rally behind Ansah to serve her term, as if the government has issued any official communication demanding her resignation.

The hard truth is that the government has done absolutely nothing wrong to Ansah, and the entire brouhaha is based on unsubstantiated rumours that have been repeatedly dismissed by the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC).

PAC’s recent statement supporting Ansah’s decision not to resign is not only premature but also dangerously irresponsible.

The hard truth is that in a democracy founded on constitutional order and respect for official processes, it is reckless for any organization to react publicly to mere speculation and social media rumours without waiting for verified information.

The OPC, acting through Chief Secretary Justin Saidi, has categorically denied any request for resignation, labeling the circulating claims as “false, baseless and deliberately misleading.”

Yet, PAC has chosen to disregard this official communication and instead amplified hearsay, thereby eroding the very credibility it should be safeguarding.

It is baffling and disheartening that PAC, once regarded as a beacon of principled advocacy during Malawi’s early 90s democratic struggle, is now reduced to echoing unverified social media chatter.

The hard truth is that this is a sharp departure from the PAC of old, which played a pivotal role in championing Malawians’ voices against oppression and injustice.

Today’s PAC appears to have lost its moral compass and focus, choosing to entangle itself in partisan theatrics instead of upholding its mandate to provide objective oversight and constructive dialogue.

This degeneration calls for an immediate and thorough review of PAC’s leadership and mandate to reclaim the integrity that once made it a credible voice for Malawians.

Furthermore, it is particularly disappointing to observe PAC’s selective engagement with political issues.

The hard truth is that during the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) government under President Lazarus Chakwera, when Malawians genuinely sought avenues to express their grievances and hold the government accountable, PAC remained conspicuously silent.

This inconsistent activism paints a picture of PAC as a partisan tool rather than an independent watchdog.

When the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is in power, PAC suddenly finds its voice and makes noise, but during MCP’s reign, it chooses silence.

This selective activism only serves to entrench divisions and erode public confidence in civil society organizations that claim to be neutral arbiters of democratic discourse.

The implications of PAC’s reckless statements go beyond mere political noise; they threaten to destabilize governance and distract from the real issues facing Malawians.

The hard truth is that by engaging in baseless speculation and public condemnation without evidence, PAC is contributing to unnecessary polarization and confusion.

This not only undermines the office of the First Vice President but also disrespects the official government institutions that have adhered to transparency and constitutional processes throughout this controversy.

Given these grave missteps, the hard truth is that the current PAC executive committee has clearly lost focus and direction.

Their recent behavior is a betrayal of the values that should define civil society leadership — impartiality, responsibility, and respect for due process.

It is therefore imperative to call for the immediate resignation of all PAC executive committee members.

Only through fresh leadership that is committed to restoring PAC’s dignity and credibility can the organization hope to regain the trust of Malawians and play a constructive role in national discourse.

Moreover, the current leadership must embark on a serious reflection and overhaul of PAC’s approach, taking inspiration from the PAC of the early 90s.

Back then, PAC was a formidable force that galvanized Malawians towards democracy and social justice through principled advocacy and unwavering commitment to truth.

The hard truth is that PAC’s transformation into a partisan mouthpiece is a disservice to the legacy of those early champions of democracy.

A comprehensive review of PAC’s constitution, leadership criteria, and operational mandates is urgently needed to prevent further erosion of its credibility.

It is time for PAC to return to its roots — a principled, unbiased, and responsible voice for Malawians.

The hard truth is that Malawi deserves civil society organizations that elevate national discourse, respect constitutional order, and eschew baseless rumours and political partisanship.

Until PAC undertakes this much-needed overhaul, its calls and statements will continue to ring hollow and breed mistrust.

Malawians deserve better, and it is high time PAC delivers on that promise.

The Hard Truth is that PAC needs to wake up and smell the coffee.

The people of Malawi are not fooled by empty statements and desperate attempts to cling to power. It’s time for change, and it’s time for PAC to get on board.

Feedback:+265992082424
Email: jonesgadama@gmail.com

Politics

Donald Trump fires Attorney General Bondi amidst controversy over Epstein files

Burnett Munthali

WASHINGTON-(MaraviPost)-US Attorney General Pam Bondi has been ousted from her position, marking a significant shake-up in the Trump administration.

Multiple reports confirm that Bondi’s firing is linked to her handling of the Jeffrey Epstein files, which has been a contentious issue for the administration.

The move comes after weeks of speculation about Bondi’s future, with critics accusing her of mishandling the release of documents related to Epstein, a convicted sex offender.

Bondi had faced criticism from both Democrats and Republicans for not doing enough to hold those involved in Epstein’s crimes accountable.

Bondi’s departure is the second high-profile firing in the Trump administration in recent weeks, following the ouster of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

The move has sparked speculation about further changes in the administration, with some sources suggesting that Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin could be in line to replace Bondi.

The Jeffrey Epstein case has been a thorn in the side of the Trump administration, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability.

Epstein, a financier and philanthropist, was accused of sex trafficking and abuse, and his death in prison in 2019 sparked widespread outrage.

Bondi’s handling of the case has been criticized by lawmakers, including Democratic Representative Jamie Raskin, who accused her of “siding with perpetrators” and ignoring victims.

Bondi had defended her record, saying she was committed to fighting for victims and had done everything possible to address the issue.

The White House has not officially commented on Bondi’s firing, but President Donald Trump has previously expressed frustration with her handling of the Epstein files.

Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche will serve as acting Attorney General until a replacement is confirmed.

Politics

Tempers fizzle as Zimbabwe leader Mnangagwa’s term extension plan sparks outrage

MaraviPost

HARARE-(MaraviPost)-The sun beats down on the streets of Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe’s third-largest urban centre, but it’s the heated debate inside the town’s main aquatic complex that’s really sizzling.

A crowd has gathered, with emotions running high as they discuss a proposed amendment to the country’s constitution.

At the entrance, a woman in a cream floral dress is leading the charge, heckling speakers who support the plan to extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s term to 2030.

The amendment, if approved, would change presidential and legislative terms from five to seven years and give parliament the power to elect the president.

The proposal has sparked widespread criticism, with opposition figures accusing the government of trying to cling to power.

Currently, the president is chosen through a popular vote in direct elections and can only serve two terms.

But with Mnangagwa in his second term and his ZANU-PF party dominating parliament, critics fear the amendments could make it harder for anyone outside the party to become president.

The bill is part of the government’s “Vision 2030” development agenda, aiming to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy.

However, critics argue that the changes will only serve to consolidate power and undermine democracy.

Zimbabwe’s cabinet approved the draft legislation in February, and it’s now headed to parliament for debate.

But with the opposition boycotting the public hearings, citing violence and intimidation, the future of the bill remains uncertain.

Politics, Religion

Trump draws controversy with Jesus Christ comparison at Easter event

Burnett Munthali

WASHINGTON-(MaraviPost)-US President Donald Trump’s spiritual advisor has sparked outrage and ridicule after comparing him to Jesus Christ at an Easter event.

Paula White, a televangelist and Trump’s spiritual advisor, told the audience that Trump had been “betrayed and arrested and falsely accused, just like our Lord and Saviour”.

The comment has been met with widespread criticism, with many taking to social media to express their shock and dismay.

The comparison has been described as “beyond parody” and has raised questions about the boundaries of political and religious rhetoric.

The event, which was held on Easter Sunday, was meant to be a celebration of the Christian holiday, but has instead been overshadowed by controversy.

Trump himself has a history of making provocative statements, but this latest comparison has left many wondering about the motivations behind it.

Some have accused White of blasphemy, while others have defended her right to free speech.

The incident highlights the increasingly blurred lines between politics and religion in the US, and raises questions about the role of faith in public life.

As the Easter celebrations continue, the controversy is likely to continue to dominate headlines and spark heated debate.

The White House has not commented on the incident, but it is likely to add to the ongoing scrutiny of Trump’s actions and statements.

Politics

Whistleblower Alexious Kamangila loses focus amid social media clash with “CHIGOBA Bakili Muluzi TV”

MaraviPost


LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-What began as a strong voice against corruption now appears to be losing direction, raising questions among followers and observers alike.

Prominent whistleblower and lawyer Alex Kamangila, once widely recognized for exposing alleged cases of money laundering and corruption in both government and private sectors, is now at the center of a different kind of storm one that threatens to overshadow his credibility and mission.

The shift in focus comes in the wake of a public confrontation with a well-known CHIGOBA Bakili Muluzi TV (BMTV) whose author is Haswell Bello.

The clash, which unfolded just days ago, has seemingly diverted Kamangila’s attention from his usual investigative work to a personal battle for online dominance.

For nearly five days since the incident, Kamangila’s messaging has largely revolved around responding to and countering with CHIGOBA BMTV, rather than continuing his whistleblowing efforts.

This sudden change has not gone unnoticed. Supporters who once admired his bold stance are now expressing concern, urging him to refocus on the issues that earned him public respect in the first place.

Meanwhile, the online community remains sharply divided.

Some social media influencers and followers have taken to his platforms to calm tensions and encourage restraint, while others have mocked the situation, suggesting that Kamangila has fallen into a trap set by a more seasoned player in the digital space.

Critics argue that this episode highlights the risks whistleblowers face not only from the institutions they challenge but also from the volatile nature of social media itself.

Engaging in public disputes, they say, can dilute serious messages and shift attention away from critical national issues.

Alex Zoba anabwelera lokumbakumba

Observers note that “history is the best teacher,”

a phrase now frequently invoked in discussions around the saga, implying that public figures who lose focus risk undermining their own influence.

In Kamangila’s case, the coming days may prove decisive: whether he regains his footing as a whistleblower or continues down a path of online confrontation.

As the situation unfolds, many are left wondering whether this is merely a temporary distraction or a turning point in the trajectory of one of Malawi’s most outspoken voices against corruption.

corruption, Politics

“You can’t conclude Amaryllis Hotel purchase probe without key testifiers Zamba, Garden City Properties”-Malondera’s Parley challenged

Shaffie A Mtambo

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Parliament is facing mounting criticism over its decision to proceed with releasing a report on the controversial hotel sale, despite failing to question several key individuals central to the transaction.

The move has sparked concern among governance experts, who warn that the credibility of the findings could be undermined.

At the centre of the controversy is Zamba, a figure repeatedly referenced in the inquiry but reportedly not called to testify.

Also left out are two prominent property valuers Knight Frank and Garden City Properties alongside the seller, Yusuf Investments.

These entities played a pivotal role in determining the value of the hotel, raising questions about why their perspectives were not formally sought.

Human rights advocate Edward Kambanje has strongly criticized the omission, describing it as both surprising and troubling.

He noted that while some institutions such as FDH Bank and EMJ were invited to provide testimony, those directly responsible for the valuation process were overlooked.

Kambanje argued that the valuation discrepancies alone warrant deeper scrutiny.

According to available information, the property was initially pegged at MK128 billion by the seller, while valuers later assessed it at MK47 billion a massive gap that demands clear explanation.

He emphasized that Yusuf Investments, as the seller, should have been questioned on how it arrived at the MK128 billion valuation.

Similarly, the valuers needed to justify the methodology and assumptions behind the significantly lower figure they presented.

From an accountability standpoint, Kambanje warned that excluding such critical witnesses risks weakening the integrity of the entire investigation.

Without their input, the report may fail to provide a complete picture of how the transaction unfolded.

He further urged PAC to resist the temptation of rushing the report for the sake of expediency. Instead, he suggested that alternative means such as virtual hearings could still be used to engage individuals like Zamba before finalizing the findings.

“Malawians deserve transparency and thoroughness, especially in matters involving public funds,” Kambanje stressed, adding that the credibility of parliamentary oversight is at stake.

There are also fears that releasing a report perceived as incomplete could fuel public suspicion and reinforce narratives of bias, partiality or even negligence within parliamentary processes.

Such perceptions, experts caution, can have long term consequences, including erosion of public trust in key democratic institutions tasked with oversight and governance.

Meanwhile, PAC chairperson Steven Malondera has confirmed that the committee is on track to release its findings within the week, despite the growing calls for a delay.

Business, Politics

Insightful leadership: Hichilema temporarily suspends VAT, duty on fuel to ease prices for Zambians

MaraviPost

LUSAKA-(MaraviPost)-President Hakainde Hichilema government has temporarily suspended Excise Duty and set VAT to zero on petrol and diesel for three months, from April to June 2026.

The decision comes as global fuel prices surge due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The Zamba government says the move will ease pressure on consumers and businesses.

Petrol now costs about US$1.42 per litre, while diesel is around US$1.56.

This short-term relief is expected to help keep pump prices more stable in the coming months.

Politics

Why police search warrant for embattled former SPC Zamba when the same state allowed her escape to RSA?

MaraviPost

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The home of former Secretary to the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC), Colleen Zamba, was on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 raided by police officers in a search for foreign currency, according to her lawyer, George Kadzipatike.

At least 25 police officers from the Fiscal Police, accompanied by police dogs, stormed Zamba’s house in Area 14, Lilongwe, and conducted a six-hour search for evidence of money laundering.

A search warrant, dated March 31, 2026, and issued by the Mkukula First Grade Magistrate Court in Lilongwe, authorised the police to investigate and search Zamba’s premises for proceeds of money laundering.

The warrant, obtained by Superintendent Henry Moyo, specifically authorised the police to search House number 168 in Area 14, Lilongwe, which is believed to belong to Zamba, although it is registered under the name Babani Mandiza.

The police officers searched the entire house but failed to find any incriminating evidence, according to Kadzipatike.

Kadzipatike has condemned the police action, saying his client is being “unnecessarily molested” and that the authorities are rushing to act on rumours rather than concrete evidence of wrongdoing.

“The police officers searched everywhere in the house but found nothing incriminating. I would urge the police to always have concrete evidence before they rush to obtain draconian court orders such as warrants of arrest,” Kadzipatike said.

The lawyer added that ultimately, it will be Malawians who will pay damages for such negligent conduct, implying that the police action was unjustified and may have caused unnecessary distress to Zamba and her family.

The police spokesperson, Lael Chimtembo, is yet to respond to requests for comment on the matter.

The search of Zamba’s home is the latest development in a series of high-profile investigations into alleged corruption and money laundering involving senior government officials in Malawi.

But why this search warrant when the same state allowed Zamba to escape to South Africa while she is needed most in Amaryllis Hotel purchase probe?

Isn’t this staged stunt to be seen working while the state shares the same bed with Zamba?

Malawians are tired with this hypocritical approach on serious matters of national concern….