By Burnett Munthali
Second Vice President says APM administration is working “24 hours” to reverse shortages inherited from previous government
Second Vice President Enock Kanzingeni Chihana has assured motorists that President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has taken swift and decisive measures to address the ongoing energy and fuel crisis affecting the country.
Chihana made the remarks at Luwinga Puma Filling Station in Mzuzu while traveling to Bolero, where he is expected to attend the Gonapamuhanya Cultural Festival.
He accused the previous administration under Dr. Lazarus Chakwera of lacking the capacity and leadership acumen required to manage the country’s energy and economic affairs.
Chihana said the new administration found what he described as a “huge hole” left behind by its predecessor.
He argued that this gap has plunged the country into what he called “economic darkness.”
According to him, transport and logistics form the backbone of socioeconomic transformation, and the disruption in fuel supply has severely affected all sectors of the economy.
The Vice President expressed concern that the crisis has brought daily life and national productivity to a near standstill.
Chihana offered a public apology to Malawians on behalf of President Mutharika for the hardships citizens are currently experiencing.
He acknowledged the severity of the situation, describing the struggles faced by motorists and businesses as “torture.”
However, Chihana emphasized that the new administration is working tirelessly to restore normalcy.
He said government officials are engaging day and night to stabilize fuel supply, restore confidence in the energy sector, and undo the damage he attributes to the previous leadership.
Chihana further warned fuel station managers and private individuals allegedly hoarding fuel for profit.
He stressed that the government will not tolerate practices that exacerbate the crisis or exploit the suffering of ordinary Malawians.
He insisted that strict measures will be taken to monitor fuel distribution and ensure equitable access across the country.
Chihana assured the public that improvements will be visible soon.
He said the administration is committed to reversing the crisis in record time as part of broader efforts to rebuild economic stability and public trust.
The Vice President reiterated that President Mutharika’s government sees energy security as a national priority.
He said restoring fuel availability is essential for reviving agriculture, transportation, industry, and key development programs.
Chihana concluded by urging Malawians to remain calm as the government works to “reverse the catastrophe and shame.”
He reaffirmed that solutions are already being implemented and that citizens will soon begin to feel relief as the energy supply chain stabilizes.
