By Jones Gadama
The Concerned Citizens of Malawi have warned that they will take lawful action if the government fails to urgently address the country’s fuel shortages and the rising cost of living.
In a press statement issued on 25 May 2026 under the People Power Movement banner, the group said the continued scarcity of diesel and other fuels is disrupting transport, businesses, farming, and household routines nationwide.
They described the situation as worsening by the day, with long queues at filling stations and higher transport costs placing extra strain on citizens already struggling with inflation.
Leaders of the grouping, Cde Edwards Kambanje and Cde Oliver Nakoma, said Malawians need honest communication and immediate government intervention.
They argued that pump prices remain too high despite the economic pressure on households, and called for a review of fuel levies and other taxes that they believe are driving up costs for transport, food, and essential goods.
The statement also highlighted problems in the agricultural sector. The group noted that poor tobacco sales and a rise in rejected bales are reducing income for farmers and limiting money circulation in rural areas.
While welcoming the recent minimum wage adjustment, the Concerned Citizens said it does not match the pace of price increases for food, electricity, rentals, and other basics. They urged the government to consider reducing certain taxes, including Pay As You Earn, to ease the burden on workers, consumers, and businesses.
“The welfare of Malawians must remain a national priority,” the group said, adding that without concrete relief measures they would have no choice but to pursue lawful action under Malawian law.
The grouping has held several press briefings in Blantyre and Lilongwe in recent months, focusing on fuel supply issues, commodity prices, and what they call slow government responses.
They have also conducted community meetings in the Southern Region to collect public views on economic challenges and service delivery.
