By Jones Gadama

The Public Affairs Committee (PAC) of Malawi, an institution that was once revered for its role in advocating for the rights and welfare of the Malawian populace, has become a shadow of its former self during the presidency of Lazarus Chakwera.

As Chakwera prepares to leave office in September, it is imperative to reflect on the performance of the PAC during this period and to question its effectiveness in holding the government accountable.

The PAC has failed to live up to its mandate, and its lack of decisive action against the Chakwera administration raises serious concerns about its relevance and commitment to the people of Malawi.

Historically, the PAC has been a critical voice in Malawian society, often stepping in to address issues of governance, human rights, and social justice.

It has played a pivotal role in mobilizing citizens and advocating for change, particularly during times of political turmoil. However, the current PAC has not only failed to fulfill this role but has also become complicit in the very issues it was created to combat.

The lack of strong, decisive action against the Chakwera administration is particularly troubling, as it suggests a failure to prioritize the needs and concerns of the Malawian people.

One of the most glaring shortcomings of the PAC during the Chakwera era has been its inability to effectively engage with the president and his administration. The PAC has held a series of meetings with Chakwera, yet these meetings have not translated into meaningful action or accountability.

Instead, they have often resulted in empty promises and vague commitments that do little to address the pressing issues facing the nation. The PAC’s failure to hold the president accountable for his administration’s shortcomings is a betrayal of the trust placed in it by the Malawian people.

The Chakwera administration has faced numerous challenges, including economic instability, corruption, and a lack of transparency in governance.

Despite these pressing issues, the PAC has remained largely silent, opting for a conciliatory approach rather than taking a firm stand against the government’s failures. This lack of assertiveness is particularly disappointing given the PAC’s historical role as a watchdog for the people.

The PAC’s failure to challenge the status quo has left many Malawians feeling disillusioned and abandoned.

Moreover, the PAC’s reluctance to confront Chakwera directly on issues such as corruption and governance has raised questions about its independence and integrity. The organization has often been perceived as being too close to the government, leading to accusations of complicity in the very issues it was established to combat.

This perception has eroded public trust in the PAC and has diminished its effectiveness as an advocate for the people. The PAC must recognize that its credibility hinges on its ability to challenge those in power, regardless of political affiliations.

The lack of strong leadership within the PAC has also contributed to its ineffectiveness. The organization appears to be lacking a clear vision and strategy for addressing the challenges facing Malawi.

Instead of taking bold steps to advocate for the rights of citizens, the PAC has often resorted to passive measures that do little to effect change. This failure to provide strong leadership has left many Malawians feeling frustrated and powerless in the face of government inaction.

As Chakwera prepares to leave office, it is clear that the PAC must undergo a significant transformation if it is to regain the trust and confidence of the Malawian people.

The current leadership has failed to inspire hope and action, and a new generation of leaders is needed to revitalize the organization and restore its commitment to social justice and accountability. The PAC must embrace a more proactive approach, one that prioritizes the needs of the people and holds the government accountable for its actions.

In order to regain its relevance, the PAC must also engage more effectively with civil society and grassroots organizations. By building coalitions and partnerships with other advocacy groups, the PAC can amplify its voice and increase its impact.

This collaborative approach will not only strengthen the PAC’s position but will also empower citizens to take an active role in advocating for their rights and interests.

Furthermore, the PAC must prioritize transparency and accountability within its own ranks. The organization must demonstrate its commitment to ethical leadership and governance by implementing measures that promote accountability and integrity.

This includes establishing clear guidelines for decision-making, ensuring that the voices of marginalized communities are heard, and fostering a culture of inclusivity and participation.

The PAC must also recognize the importance of engaging with the youth of Malawi.

The younger generation is increasingly disillusioned with the political establishment and is seeking new avenues for change. By actively involving young people in its initiatives and decision-making processes, the PAC can tap into their energy and creativity, fostering a new wave of activism that can drive meaningful change in the country.

As we reflect on the performance of the PAC during the Chakwera era, it is clear that the organization has fallen short of its mandate.

The failure to hold the government accountable, coupled with a lack of strong leadership and engagement with the community, has left many Malawians feeling disillusioned and frustrated. As Chakwera prepares to leave office, it is time for the PAC to undergo a transformation that will restore its credibility and effectiveness as an advocate for the people.

The Public Affairs Committee must recognize that its role is not merely to serve as a platform for dialogue with the government but to be a powerful advocate for the rights and interests of the Malawian people. The current leadership has failed to live up to this mandate, and as a result, the PAC has become a disappointing institution in the eyes of many. It is time for new blood to come into the organization, to reinvigorate its mission, and to restore its commitment to social justice and accountability. The future of Malawi depends on a strong and effective PAC that is willing to stand up for the rights of its citizens and hold those in power accountable for their actions. Only then can the PAC reclaim its rightful place as a champion for the people of Malawi.