Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Simplex Chithyola Banda said the government is committed to invest in young people who assures the country’s sustainable economic development in order to achieve the Malawi 2063 agenda.
Banda made remarks during the ministerial pre-budget consultation with the youth constituency for the 2025 in Lilongwe.
Banda said: ” so therefore we are now trying to look at how we can come up with a youth centric budget.
Banda emphasized the importance of young people in national development, noting that they make up more than half of the population.
Banda further lamented that young people are key to national development that makes president Lazarus Chakwera to incorporate young people in his cabinet to ensure the voice of the youth are heard.
In his remarks National Youth Council of Malawi( NYCOM) Executive Director Rex Chapota said active youth participation in national processes is the one way of empowering young people to be part and parcel of development issues in the country.
Chapota stated that having young people together to meet their Minister of Finance is a life time opportunity, that shows that the current government is ready to engage young people in national development.
During the meeting a youth representative called for an increase in budget allocation for youth programmes, highlighting the need for inclusivity and targeted programming.
The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Youth Wing has made bold claims regarding the turnout at a recent political rally in Kasiya, Lilongwe, stating that more than two million people attended the event. The statement was shared through their official Facebook page, where they reinforced their confidence in the party’s dominance by declaring, “BOMA NDI LOMWELI PALIBE KUSINTHA”—which translates to “This is the government; nothing will change.”
The rally in Kasiya, a strategic political area in Lilongwe, was expected to showcase MCP’s continued influence as the ruling party. If the reported figures are accurate, it would mark one of the largest political gatherings in the country’s recent history. However, the claim of over two million attendees has sparked debate among political analysts and opposition supporters, with many questioning the feasibility of such a massive turnout.
MCP remains one of Malawi’s most historically significant parties, having led the country to independence under the leadership of Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda. Under President Lazarus Chakwera’s administration, the party has continued to assert its presence in both urban and rural areas, particularly in the Central Region, which is traditionally an MCP stronghold.
The statement from the Youth Wing is likely a show of strength ahead of the next general elections, as the political landscape continues to shift with various opposition parties, including the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the United Transformation Movement (UTM), seeking to challenge MCP’s dominance.
Despite the enthusiastic claims, independent verification of the actual attendance at the rally remains unclear. Political rallies in Malawi often attract significant crowds, but exaggerated figures have historically been used as a tool for political propaganda.
The statement, “BOMA NDI LOMWELI PALIBE KUSINTHA,” suggests that MCP’s youth structures are confident about retaining power, emphasizing stability and continuity in governance. However, with the political climate in Malawi evolving and opposition parties mobilizing support, the party’s ability to maintain its dominance will ultimately be tested at the ballot box.
As the country inches closer to another election cycle, such rallies and public displays of support will play a crucial role in shaping voter perceptions. Whether the MCP can convert these large gatherings into actual votes remains a key question in Malawi’s political discourse.
The reported attendance of millions of Malawians at a Malawi Congress Party (MCP) rally in Kasiya, Lilongwe, is a significant political event that carries deep implications for the country’s political landscape. This massive turnout reflects various aspects of MCP’s influence, public sentiment, and the upcoming 2025 elections. While such large gatherings can be a demonstration of political dominance, they also raise important questions about voter loyalty, governance expectations, and the state of Malawi’s democracy.
Firstly, the large turnout in Kasiya demonstrates MCP’s ability to mobilize supporters on a massive scale. Political rallies serve as a visual representation of a party’s strength, and the sheer number of attendees sends a strong message to both supporters and opponents that MCP remains a formidable force. The event showcased the party’s deep-rooted influence, particularly in the Central Region, which has historically been an MCP stronghold.
Part of the crowd that attended the rally
MCP’s strong mobilization structures, particularly at the grassroots level, played a key role in making the rally successful. The presence of youth, women, and regional leaders at such events further cements the party’s ability to organize effectively. This ability to gather large crowds is crucial as it builds momentum ahead of elections and maintains public engagement between campaign cycles.
Secondly, the attendance of millions at the Kasiya rally suggests that many Malawians still align with MCP and President Lazarus Chakwera’s leadership. Despite economic challenges, governance concerns, and opposition criticism, the massive turnout signals that a significant portion of the population remains supportive of the ruling party. The rally provided an opportunity for MCP leaders to reinforce their policies, outline their vision, and reassure citizens of their commitment to development.
However, while such rallies indicate public interest, they also serve as a reminder of the expectations that Malawians have from the government. If MCP fails to deliver on its promises, the same crowds could turn into critics, as public opinion in politics is highly dynamic.
Thirdly, the rally’s massive attendance has a psychological effect on opposition parties, particularly the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the United Transformation Movement (UTM), both of which are working to strengthen their political bases ahead of the 2025 elections. A gathering of this magnitude creates a narrative that MCP remains the most dominant political force in Malawi.
For opposition parties, this event serves as a wake-up call, urging them to improve their mobilization strategies and ensure that they also command large followings. If the opposition fails to match such numbers, it may struggle to convince undecided voters that MCP’s dominance can be challenged.
Fourthly, Kasiya, like much of the Central Region, has traditionally been an MCP stronghold. The massive turnout in this area could reflect not just party loyalty but also regional politics at play. Many Malawians still vote along regional lines, and the Central Region has consistently supported MCP in previous elections. This suggests that MCP’s grip on the region remains intact, making it a critical base for the party going into the next elections.
However, for MCP to secure national victory in 2025, it must extend this level of support to other regions, particularly the Southern and Northern regions, where the opposition has historically had strongholds. The party must ensure that its policies appeal to a broad range of voters beyond its traditional bases.
Fifthly, one of the most crucial questions following the Kasiya rally is whether such large attendance will translate into votes during the elections. Political rallies in Malawi, like in many African democracies, can sometimes attract large crowds due to factors such as free transport, allowances, and entertainment. It is not always a direct indicator of genuine electoral support.
MCP must be cautious not to assume that these numbers will automatically convert into votes. The real challenge lies in ensuring that supporters turn up on election day, particularly in rural areas where voter turnout can fluctuate. The party must also engage in grassroots voter education to prevent voter apathy and ensure that its supporters are registered and ready to participate in the elections.
Sixthly, the massive turnout at the Kasiya rally highlights another critical aspect—Malawians are deeply engaged in the country’s political processes, largely because politics directly impacts their daily lives. Many who attended the rally likely came with expectations, particularly regarding economic improvements, job creation, and social welfare programs.
MCP must recognize that large turnouts also mean increased public pressure to deliver results. If the government does not address key concerns such as inflation, unemployment, and service delivery, these same crowds could become disillusioned before the next election. The party’s challenge now is to ensure that its policies resonate with the everyday struggles of Malawians.
Seventhly, the Kasiya rally serves as a strong indicator that MCP remains the party to beat in the upcoming elections. However, it also means that the party must work even harder to consolidate its support base, prevent defections, and counter opposition strategies. The turnout suggests that MCP has the organizational capacity to dominate campaigns, but elections are won through votes, not just crowds.
Opposition parties, meanwhile, will be analyzing this event closely, looking for ways to weaken MCP’s influence and capture undecided voters. The months leading up to the elections will determine whether MCP can maintain this momentum or whether voter dissatisfaction with governance issues will erode its support.
In conclusion, the attendance of millions at the MCP rally in Kasiya is a powerful political statement. It signals the party’s strength, its ability to mobilize supporters, and the confidence many Malawians still have in President Chakwera’s leadership. However, while the rally was a success in terms of numbers, the real test will come in 2025 when Malawians cast their votes.
MCP must not take this turnout for granted but must work diligently to address the economic and governance challenges facing the country. Otherwise, as history has shown, large crowds do not always guarantee electoral victory. For now, however, the Kasiya rally serves as a reminder that MCP remains a dominant force in Malawian politics.
In a powerful demonstration of unity and shared purpose, several women from various religious faith groups gathered in Mangochi for a thanksgiving ceremony, where Malawi’s First Lady, Gertrude Mutharika, was the esteemed guest. The event, marked by a spirit of gratitude and solidarity, brought together women from different cultural and religious backgrounds to celebrate their collective achievements and contributions to society.
The thanksgiving ceremony, which was held at a local venue in Mangochi, served as an opportunity for participants to reflect on their individual and collective journeys, as well as to acknowledge the blessings they had received throughout the year. The gathering not only highlighted the importance of thanksgiving but also emphasized the role that women, especially in the context of faith-based communities, play in shaping the social fabric of Malawi.
Mutharika
As the guest of honor at the ceremony, First Lady Gertrude Mutharika’s presence was a symbol of support for women’s empowerment and religious harmony. Her participation in the event highlighted the government’s acknowledgment of the critical role that women play in the socio-economic development of the country.
In her remarks, Mutharika emphasized the importance of unity, peace, and collaboration among women of diverse religious affiliations. She pointed out that the event was an example of how differences in faith can be set aside for the greater good of the community. Her speech focused on the importance of women supporting one another, irrespective of religious beliefs, to build stronger communities and a more inclusive society.
The First Lady’s involvement also reinforced the idea that religious tolerance and collaboration are essential for the nation’s development. She acknowledged the significant contributions of women in fostering peace, social welfare, and education, particularly in marginalized communities.
The event also marked a celebration of the collective strength of women across various religious communities. Women from Christianity, Islam, and other faith groups participated actively, sharing testimonies of how their religious beliefs had empowered them to overcome personal challenges and contribute meaningfully to the welfare of their families and communities.
The diversity in attendance showcased the unity among women of different faiths in Malawi, underlining that despite the religious differences, they all shared the common goal of improving the lives of those around them. This unity became a cornerstone of the event, as women openly embraced each other and worked together to support one another’s causes.
The thanksgiving ceremony also included calls for continued collaboration and action to support women’s rights, education, and health. Several speakers, including religious leaders, emphasized the need to continue fighting for equal opportunities for women in all spheres of life, including in the political and economic sectors.
Women at the event shared their hopes for a future where gender equality is fully realized, where women have access to equal opportunities, and where they can actively participate in decision-making processes. They also called for more efforts to address issues such as gender-based violence, child marriage, and lack of access to education, particularly in rural areas.
The participation of women from different religious faiths was seen as a reminder that these challenges require collective efforts and that women, regardless of their religious beliefs, have a significant role in effecting social change. By working together, women can create a stronger, more inclusive society that ensures the well-being and advancement of all its members.
The thanksgiving ceremony in Mangochi was more than just a religious event; it was a symbol of unity and a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of women in Malawi. Through their faith and collective action, women are driving positive change in their communities and inspiring future generations.
First Lady Gertrude Mutharika’s involvement underscored the importance of celebrating the contributions of women from all walks of life, and her call for continued collaboration and unity among religious communities resonated deeply with those in attendance. As Malawi continues to navigate its social and economic challenges, it is clear that the collective efforts of women, working together across religious and cultural lines, will play an essential role in building a more peaceful, prosperous, and equitable society.
Donald Trump’s first few days as the 45th President of the United States in January 2017 were marked by a whirlwind of executive actions, political controversies, and an immediate shift in America’s domestic and foreign policy direction. As a political outsider who had never held public office before, Trump’s transition into power was unconventional, with an aggressive focus on fulfilling campaign promises, defying political norms, and challenging the media.
His first days in office set the tone for what would become one of the most polarizing presidencies in U.S. history. From his inaugural address to his early executive orders, Trump’s approach was defined by nationalism, economic protectionism, and a confrontational attitude toward both domestic and international critics.
Donald J Trump
Trump was inaugurated on January 20, 2017, delivering a speech that sharply departed from the hopeful and unifying rhetoric of his predecessors. Instead, he painted a dark image of America, referring to “American carnage” caused by crime, economic struggles, and weak leadership. His speech resonated with his core supporters but was criticized for its pessimistic tone.
Almost immediately, Trump became embroiled in a controversy over the size of the crowd at his inauguration. Photos comparing his audience to that of former President Barack Obama’s 2009 inauguration went viral, showing a noticeably smaller turnout. The Trump administration, particularly then-Press Secretary Sean Spicer, insisted that Trump’s inauguration had drawn the largest crowd in history, despite clear photographic evidence to the contrary. This dispute marked the beginning of Trump’s combative relationship with the media, which he would later brand as the “enemy of the people.”
Trump wasted no time in implementing his agenda, signing a series of executive orders within his first few days in office. Some of the most consequential included:
Withdrawal from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP): Fulfilling a key campaign promise, Trump pulled the U.S. out of the TPP, a major trade deal negotiated by the Obama administration. He argued that such agreements hurt American workers and promised to pursue bilateral trade deals instead.
Reinstating the “Global Gag Rule”: Trump reinstated this Reagan-era policy that blocks U.S. funding for international organizations that provide or discuss abortion services, a move praised by conservatives but condemned by human rights activists.
The “Muslim Ban”: One of the most controversial early actions was the executive order restricting travel from seven predominantly Muslim countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. The move sparked nationwide protests at airports and was immediately challenged in court, leading to legal battles that defined much of Trump’s presidency.
Keystone XL and Dakota Access Pipelines: Trump reversed Obama-era policies by signing executive orders to revive these oil pipeline projects, arguing that they would create jobs and boost energy independence. Environmental activists strongly opposed the decision.
Trump’s early days in office saw an unprecedented war with the press. His administration introduced the concept of “alternative facts” when then-Counselor to the President Kellyanne Conway defended false claims about the inauguration crowd size. This signaled a shift in how the White House would handle the media—by challenging facts, dismissing critical reports as “fake news,” and using social media, particularly Twitter, to bypass traditional media channels.
Trump doubled down on his anti-immigration stance, directing federal agencies to begin planning the construction of a border wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. He insisted that Mexico would pay for it, though this claim was widely disputed. His administration also increased immigration enforcement, leading to fears of mass deportations among undocumented immigrants.
Trump’s foreign policy approach quickly became clear—he was focused on “America First,” often at the expense of long-standing alliances. Some key early moves included:
Tensions with Mexico: Trump’s insistence that Mexico would fund the border wall led to diplomatic tensions with Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto, who canceled a planned meeting with Trump.
Relations with Russia: Trump’s unusually warm stance toward Russian President Vladimir Putin raised eyebrows, especially given allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 election. However, his administration also faced scrutiny over potential ties between Trump associates and Russian officials.
Criticism of NATO and the European Union: Trump called NATO “obsolete” and criticized European leaders for not contributing enough to defense spending. His skepticism toward international alliances unsettled traditional U.S. allies.
The first few days of Trump’s presidency were also marked by internal disarray within the White House. Reports emerged of confusion among staff, leaks to the press, and a lack of coordination.
One of the first major scandals involved National Security Adviser Michael Flynn, who was accused of misleading the administration about his contacts with Russian officials. Although Flynn would not resign until February, the controversy highlighted the internal struggles within Trump’s team early on.
Despite political turmoil, financial markets responded positively to Trump’s presidency in its early days. Investors were optimistic about his promises of deregulation, corporate tax cuts, and infrastructure spending. The stock market surged, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average crossing 20,000 points for the first time in history.
Trump’s presidency also sparked immediate resistance. The day after his inauguration, the Women’s March took place across the United States and globally, drawing millions of participants protesting against Trump’s policies on women’s rights, immigration, and healthcare. The protests marked the beginning of a deeply divided political climate that would persist throughout his presidency.
In conclusion, Donald Trump’s first few days in office were a clear indication that his presidency would be unlike any other in modern U.S. history. His rapid-fire executive orders, combative relationship with the media, and nationalist policy approach signaled a dramatic departure from previous administrations.
While his supporters saw these actions as proof that Trump was fulfilling his campaign promises, his critics viewed them as reckless and authoritarian. His early days in power set the foundation for a presidency marked by deep political divisions, legal battles, and an ongoing struggle between his administration and the traditional political establishment.
Ultimately, Trump’s first few days in office revealed a leader determined to upend the status quo, redefine presidential norms, and aggressively push his agenda—regardless of controversy or opposition. The consequences of these early decisions would shape both his legacy and the political landscape of the United States for years to come.
