Party president Dalitso Kabambe has called on President Peter Mutharika to address Malawians directly on the challenges facing the country, including corruption and economic woes. In an open letter posted on his Facebook page, Kabambe said Malawians need reassurance that corruption will be confronted with resolve. He urged the President to acknowledge these challenges, explain the actions being taken, and demonstrate that those responsible will be held accountable.
Kabambe, the former Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) governor, cited serious allegations of corruption, money laundering, human trafficking, and public procurement issues involving members of the Cabinet and the Judiciary. He emphasized that these matters demand careful, independent investigation, not silence, intimidation, or political spin. Kabambe also highlighted the need to protect the three arms of government from allegations of misconduct and efforts to silence those who speak out.
The UTM party leader pointed out that Malawians are facing significant challenges, including shortages of fuel and gas due to low foreign exchange reserves, unreliable electricity, and a rising cost of living. He expressed concern that a small number of people around the President could be acting in a manner that dents the leadership. Kabambe said he would have preferred to discuss these issues with Mutharika in person, but circumstances made it difficult.
Presidential spokesperson Cathy Maulidi stated that the President's team had not yet seen Kabambe's letter. The Nation could not get Kabambe to elaborate on some of the issues raised. Meanwhile, the Employers Consultative Association of Malawi reported that water tariff adjustments implemented in August pushed up the cost of living, with non-food expenses rising by 4.18 percent.
The World Bank's Malawi Economic Monitor report highlighted the need for sustaining fiscal discipline, addressing debt and foreign exchange market distortions, and creating conditions for stronger private sector-led growth. The report noted that these actions are critical to realizing positive gains from the early stabilization efforts. Kabambe's call for action was echoed by political analyst George Chaima, who cited reports of corruption in both the current and previous regimes.
Chaima noted that the issues raised by Kabambe are in the public domain and need to be addressed. He cited continuing blackouts and reports of corruption, adding that there could indeed be individuals bent on soiling the President's reputation. Kabambe joined the UTM Party in 2024 and finished third in the September 16, 2025 General Election with about 211,000 votes.
President Mutharika will mark one year since his inauguration on October 4, 2026. Kabambe was appointed as RBM governor by Mutharika on April 21, 2017, before being replaced in 2020 after the Tonse Alliance came into power.
Key points
- Kabambe urges Mutharika to address Malawians directly on corruption and economic challenges.
- Malawians face significant challenges, including shortages of fuel and gas, unreliable electricity, and a rising cost of living.
- The World Bank emphasizes the need for fiscal discipline and private sector-led growth to sustain economic gains.
