By Chisomo Phiri
Minister of Trade and Industry and Malawi Congress Party (MCP) presidential running mate, Vitumbiko Mumba, has warned traders accused of hoarding cement, saying the government will not tolerate such practices.
Speaking on Friday during a whistle-stop tour in Mzuzu,
Mumba said authorities are aware of a cartel involved in the shortage and have vowed to crack down on all those responsible.
He said he has personally met with some traders to discuss challenges surrounding the availability and pricing of cement on the local market.
“The government of Lazarus Chakwera will go after all those hoarding cement in the country.
“We know that you are doing that evil to tarnish president’s name as the country approaches September 16 general elections,” said Mumba.
Reports indicate that some traders are charging as much as K35,000 for a single bag of cement in the capital Lilongwe.
