BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Concerned Citizens of Malawi, operating under the banner of the People Power Movement, have issued a scathing press statement accusing the government of failing to address the country’s worsening fuel shortages and rising cost of living, and warned that they will take lawful action if urgent measures are not implemented.
In the statement released on 25 May 2026, the grouping expressed deep concern over the continued scarcity of fuel across the country, particularly diesel, which they say is crippling businesses, transport services, farming operations, and daily life for ordinary Malawians.
“The situation is worsening each day. Long queues at filling stations, rising transport costs and delays in business operations are placing unnecessary pressure on citizens who are already struggling with the high cost of living,” the statement reads.
The organization, led by Cde Edwards Kambanje and Cde Oliver Nakoma, argued that Malawians deserve “truthful communication and immediate action” from authorities regarding the fuel crisis and broader economic challenges.
They highlighted that fuel prices remain excessively high despite the deteriorating economic situation, driving up the cost of transport, food, and other essential goods.
The Concerned Citizens called on the government to urgently review fuel levies and what they termed “unnecessary taxes” to reduce pump prices and ease pressure on households and businesses.
They also pointed to the agricultural sector, noting that poor tobacco sales and increasing rejection of tobacco bales are reducing income circulation in rural communities and pushing many households into severe economic distress.
While acknowledging the recent adjustment to the minimum wage, the group said it remains insufficient given the sharp increase in prices of food, transport, electricity, rentals, and other basic necessities.
They joined calls for the government to consider reducing certain taxes, including Pay As You Earn, to cushion workers, consumers, and businesses during the difficult period.
“Failure to address these concerns will leave us with no option but to take lawful action in accordance with the laws of Malawi so that the voices of citizens are heard and respected,” the statement warned. “The welfare of Malawians must remain a national priority.”
The Concerned Citizens of Malawi have become increasingly vocal over the past year, positioning themselves as a watchdog for economic and governance issues.
In recent months, the grouping has held several press briefings in Blantyre and Lilongwe addressing fuel shortages, rising commodity prices, and what they describe as slow government response to citizen grievances.
They have also organized community engagement meetings in the Southern Region to document public concerns on the cost of living and service delivery.
Their latest intervention comes at a time when Malawi continues to grapple with foreign exchange shortages, erratic fuel supply, and inflationary pressure that has eroded household purchasing power.
The government has previously attributed the fuel crisis to global supply chain disruptions and foreign exchange constraints, but civil society groups and political watchers say more proactive policy measures are needed.
The Concerned Citizens said they remain open to dialogue but will not hesitate to pursue legal avenues to ensure accountability and responsiveness from state authorities.
