By Rahim Abdul
Governance expert Bonface Joseph has criticised Malawi’s political leadership over the country’s worsening economic challenges, arguing that while the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has shortcomings, the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) is not the solution to the country’s problems.
Speaking to Mzati Radio from his sickbed, Joseph accused politicians of returning to power with promises of reform but failing to improve the lives of ordinary Malawians once elected.
Joseph: DPP, MCP just same
He said political leaders are preoccupied with internal power struggles and sharing positions instead of addressing the economic hardships facing the country.
“They come as reformed saints, claiming they have learned and changed, win votes, and then punish Malawians in the end. Instead of building Malawi, they are busy with internal battles, fighting for positions and sharing the spoils while the country burns. DPP may have flaws, but MCP can never be a solution,” said Joseph.
On the fuel crisis, Joseph lamented the absence of lasting solutions, saying motorists and passengers continue to face difficulties while transport costs and pressure on businesses increase.
He also accused authorities of mishandling foreign exchange despite acknowledging its scarcity.
“Up to date, there are no long-term solutions to the fuel crisis in the country. And forex is mishandled by the same authorities who have the audacity to climb podiums telling Malawians we have a forex problem. You mishandle forex, you loot forex, then you lecture us? That is punishing Malawians!” he said.
Joseph further criticised unreliable electricity supply and the rising cost of living, arguing that frequent blackouts and expensive essential commodities are worsening conditions for households and businesses.
He said power interruptions are disrupting operations at barbershops, welding workshops and maize mills, while high prices of fertiliser, maize and cooking oil are adding to the financial burden on citizens.
“Blackouts every day, yet bills are going up. How do you run a barbershop, welding business or maize mill with no electricity? The cost of living is unbearable — fertiliser, maize and cooking oil are all expensive, but jobs and forex are gone. Malawians are truly suffering,” he said.
On water supply and food security, Joseph questioned why the country continue to experience water shortages and agricultural difficulties despite having major water resources, including Lake Malawi, the Shire River, Songwe River and Rukuru River.
He argued that proper management of these resources can improve water access, boost agricultural production and reduce reliance on imported produce.
“It is pathetic, very pathetic, to see a good water table everywhere but water is scarce. Crops are drying when plenty of water flows from Karonga to Nsanje and into the ocean, yet we talk about hunger and importing tomatoes. Lake Malawi, Shire, Songwe and Rukuru,God gave us everything, but leaders give us nothing!” he said.
Joseph also raised concerns about the wealth accumulated by some political and government officials while many citizens struggle to afford basic necessities.
He alleged that officials have amassed wealth while ordinary Malawians struggle to secure two meals a day, calling for new leadership rather than a return to familiar political figures.
“Akuluakulu a boma la MCP analemera modabwitsa, zomwe zikuchitikanso lero. Anthu awa ndi amodzi; we need new blood. While Malawians cannot afford two meals, they build mansions, buy cars and stash dollars abroad,” he said.
Reflecting on the country’s political future, Joseph said many Malawians are becoming frustrated with the prospect of waiting until the 2030 general elections for meaningful change.
“Malawians feel 2030 is very far! How do you reach 2030 with no fuel, no forex, no electricity, no water, no food, no jobs, only high prices and recycled liars?” he asked.
Joseph concluded by urging politicians across the political divide to demonstrate compassion, integrity and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of Malawians.
“Muzikhala ndi chikumbumtima ndi umunthu, andale inu!” he said.
