BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-UTM President Dalitso Kabambe has criticised the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) government, accusing it of failing to address critical economic challenges, including the persistent shortage of cement in the country.
Speaking with Maravi Post, Kabambe said it is deeply disappointing that despite earlier promises, government ministers have admitted that Malawi still faces cement supply problems, particularly in areas outside Lilongwe, where imported cement from Zambia is failing to reach.
“Since MCP came to power, they have always relied on makeshift and short-term solutions to solve serious problems.Over time, it is clear they have failed.
“A government cannot be run through shortcuts and incompetence.Malawi has everything needed to produce enough cement locally; the problem is MCP’s lack of capacity,” said Kabambe .
The former Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM ) Governor said his 25 years of experience in public service makes him better placed to govern.
He stressed that Malawi requires tested leadership to resolve long-standing economic issues.
Kabambe outlined his proposed solutions to stabilise the economy, reduce forex shortages, and create jobs.
He said UTM would invest K500 billion annually in new factories for cement, juices, and other products.
This, he explained, would reduce reliance on imports, save foreign currency, and create local jobs.
The economist said for the first three years, UTM would also implement strict austerity by reducing unnecessary government travel and fuel usage to cut forex spending.
He further pledged to trim embassy staff and reassess the value of some foreign missions, arguing that Malawi spends excessive amounts of forex on positions that bring little benefit.
Additionally,Kabambe promised to channel K500 billion into mining projects to boost exports, generate foreign currency, and create more jobs while increasing government revenue.
He likened his movement to Malawi’s past struggles for independence and democracy, saying UTM represents a ‘Third Revolution.’
“Just as the youth of the 1960s fought colonialism and later others resisted one-party dictatorship, today we must rise again against poverty, corruption, and poor leadership. We cannot allow a situation where the President’s child is buying private jets while ordinary Malawians suffer,” he said.
Kabambe also promised that under his leadership, 70 percent of the national budget would directly benefit citizens through job creation, business support, infrastructure development, and access to clean water.
“Malawi needs to do things differently if we are to progress.Otherwise, we will continue to suffer while other countries move forward. Do not make a mistake. Vote for Dr. Kabambe. Vote for UTM,” he said.
