By Chisomo Phiri
The Former Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM) Governor Dalitso Kabambe has tipped Tonse Alliance administration to focus more on production for Malawi to sustain its foreign reserves.
Speaking at a press briefing organized by former Malawi leader and President for Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Arthur Peter Mutharika on Friday at his Page House in Mangochi, Kabambe suggested promoting increased production to satisfy global demand for tobacco as one way to generate more forex.
He said it is sad that nowadays people who bring in more forex into the country, including tobacco and cotton farmers, are suffering and not enjoying the fruits of their labour.
The RBM Governor said the current government led by President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera lacks sound leadership pointing at among other things, increased borrowing and a bloated budget.
He described government excitement over Extended Credit Facility (ECF) as worrisome, as the country cannot be celebrating after getting loans.
According to him, loans are short term, and the country needs to start looking for long term solutions.
“Nzomvetsa chisoni kuti nduna za boma komanso m’tsogoleri wa dziko lino akumanyadira chifukwa dziko lino lalandira ngongole kuchokera ku bungwe la IMF.Ngongole si chinthu choti dziko lino lizinyadira kuti lalandira,” said Kabambe.
Taking his turn, DPP Vice-President for the Eastern Region Bright Msaka said it is utter disrespect to tell people that the country is well governed when people keep spending hours on fuel queues.
He mentioned that people are failing to pay school fees for their children, failing to buy fertiliser and even meet their basic needs.
Msaka said for one to decide to be a leader,you need to be sure.
He said there is trial and error in the running of affairs of government including selection of people to work in various positions.
He further queried why Chakwera was not listening from way back, to calls for him to cut his travels and only to acknowledge now when he decided to stop his international trips.
