The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA),has expressed satisfaction over the implementation of new FM frequencies across the country.
The sentiments were made in Lilongwe during a media briefing on the overview of the initiative as all the radio stations across the country have successfully switched to the new frequencies.
In an interview with journalists, Director General for MACRA,Daudi Suleman described the initiative as a great milestone to the regulator in regard to the granting of the new licences to over 150 new broadcasters.
Suleman
“This will assist in having a scalable network and Malawians will have a choice on where to access news and entertainment on radio, as there will be significant growth of the sector and there will be job creation,” said Suleman.
Suleman further disclosed that the initiative was collaborative between MACRA and radio stations to narrow the gaps that were identified in the process.
He also disclosed that MACRA has embarked on two key regulatory systems to be implemented such as revenue assurance system which will help the regulator to be in account for the revenue being made in the sector in billing correctly to the operators and the central equipment identification registry which will help the regulator in fortify the space around mobile devices in the country as it will combat mobile fraud but also,block any stolen and fake device to operate in the country.
According to Suleman,the initiative initially started in December 2022 and it has come into effect in January this year.
The recent decision by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to expel key figures such as former Vice President Kondwani Nankhumwa and former Secretary General Grizelder Jeffrey has left Malawians speculating about the next steps for these ousted members.
As the nation awaits their response, it is crucial to consider the various options available to Nankhumwa, Jeffrey, Nicholas Dausi, Mark Botoman, Cecilia Chazama and other fired members.
Firstly, Nankhumwa and the dismissed members may choose to form a new political party.
This path would allow them to regroup, establish a fresh identity and potentially attract followers who share their political ideologies.
Opting for the formation of a new political party might pose risks for Nankhumwa, potentially leading him to dig his own political grave.
Without the backing of the DPP, he could face challenges establishing a significant political presence.
Considering the current political landscape in Malawi, it appears doubtful that there is ample room for the emergence of another party to thrive.
Notably, even longstanding parties like the United Democratic Front (UDF) are grappling with difficulties, emphasising the challenging nature of the political environment.
It is essential to acknowledge the reality that the viability of a new party could be precarious, and Nankhumwa may need to carefully navigate this terrain to sustain political relevance.
Alternatively, they could join forces with an existing opposition party that aligns with their beliefs and values.
By merging with another political group, Nankhumwa and his associates may leverage existing structures, resources, and support bases, enhancing their chances of influencing Malawi’s political landscape.
Lastly, some individuals might opt for a temporary political hiatus, taking time to reassess their political strategies, build alliances, and gauge public sentiment.
This period of reflection could be used to formulate a well-thought-out plan for their political future, ensuring a more strategic and calculated return to the political arena.
Regrettably, in the realm of politics, time is a scarce commodity. The perpetual rush in decision-making has prematurely terminated the political careers of numerous politicians in the country.
In conclusion, the options available to Kondwani Nankhumwa and the dismissed members of the DPP are very limited.
Whether they choose to form a new party, align with existing parties pursue legal action or take a temporary hiatus, their decision will be a make or break of their political career.
The coming weeks will undoubtedly reveal the trajectory that these ousted members will take and its implications for the country’s political dynamics.
However, Nankhumwa, unmistakably driven by a strong libido for the presidency, finds himself navigating a precarious political path. His journey carries the risk of a significant fall onto unforgiving political terrain.
In recent months, Malawi has witnessed a growing rift between political parties, specifically the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
This divide has caught the attention of the clergy, who, as respected members of society, feel compelled to advocate for democratic values and national unity.
However, this feature aims to shed light on the stand taken by the clergy, their concerns, and their call for the inclusion of expelled DPP members within the MCP.
Upholding Discipline and Regulation in Institutions
The clergy in Malawi assert that every institution, including the church, must abide by regulations to maintain order and discipline.
They point out that any violation of these regulations calls for appropriate disciplinary action, including the possibility of expulsion from an organization.
The clergy emphasize that these rules are necessary to uphold the integrity and values of any institution.
Embracing Freedom of Association in a Secular and Democratic State
Acknowledging that Malawi is a secular state, the clergy also highlight its democratic nature, which guarantees the freedom of association.
They underline that the church, like any other organization, depends on the government’s good policies to thrive.By doing so, they reiterate the significance of respecting both the secular and democratic principles of the country.
Advocating for Democratic Regime Change
The Pentecostal Council of Southern Africa, representing the clergy, expresses concern over what they perceive as a failure of the current Tonse Government to meet the needs of the Malawian people.
They argue that a democratic regime change is needed, suggesting that the opposition must reorganize itself and attempt to overthrow the government at the next election in 2025, through the ballot rather than through unlawful means.
Unease Over MCP’s Involvement in DPP Affairs
The clergy voice their concern and surprise at the MCP alleged interference in the internal affairs of the DPP, which is considered the “government in waiting.”
They claim that this interference and manipulation suggest an ulterior motive, with the MCP exploiting expelled DPP members to destabilize the party.
This perceived interference raises worries among the clergy and prompts them to release a press statement, demanding transparency and fair play.
The Call for Inclusion and Unity
Amid the prevailing political tensions, the clergy calls upon the MCP to embrace the expelled DPP members within their ranks.
They argue that inclusion and unity are essential for the well-being of the nation, as it fosters a sense of belonging and ensures a diverse representation of perspectives.
The clergy appeal to the MCP to prioritize the interests of the country above partisan politics and extend a welcoming hand to their former adversaries.
Prayers for the Nation and Reminders for the President
Concluding their stance, the clergy urge Malawians to continue praying for the country’s betterment.
They emphasize the importance of spiritual intervention to address the alleged oppression faced by the people under the MCP-led government.
Furthermore, they request divine guidance for their president, encouraging him to adhere to his promises and fulfill his duties in serving the nation effectively.
Conclusion
The clergy in Malawi play a significant role in advocating for democratic values, unity, and national well-being.
By speaking out against interference in political affairs, calling for the inclusion of expelled members, and urging prayers for the nation, they stress the importance of upholding democratic principles while emphasizing the power of unity for a prosperous Malawi.
It is through the collective efforts of society, government,and the clergy that the country can achieve true progress and unity.
Malawi’s political battle field has been ignited once again as the main opposition party,the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), faces intense scrutiny following a recent disciplinary hearing.
In response to the outcome, the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has vehemently criticized the process, prompting a fierce exchange of accusations between the two parties.
The highly contentious nature of this event has brought forth questions about political unity, accountability, and the future direction of the country.
Background
The DPP, through a legally constituted disciplinary committee, recently conducted a procedural and transparent hearing that resulted in various individuals being disciplined within its own ranks.
The MCP, however, has taken a strong stance against the proceedings, labeling them as desperate, hypocritical, and indicative of fear.
This clash underscores the underlying tensions between these two major political parties in Malawi.
Sanity and Unity vs. Unfulfilled Promises
One of the key points of contention revolves around the MCP’s prioritization of questioning the DPP’s internal affairs rather than addressing its own shortcomings in delivering campaign promises.
The DPP argues that while the MCP is concerned with maintaining sanity and unity within their ranks, they have failed to fulfill the aspirations of the Malawian people who voted them into power.
This accusation harks back to 1993 when the MCP campaigned against political pluralism and denounced multi-party democracy as a form of warfare.
Party Purges and Hypocrisy
Both parties have engaged in a tit-for-tat exchange regarding their respective internal purges.
The DPP accuses the MCP of conveniently forgetting the dismissal of several high-ranking members, including their first vice president Richard Msowoya, secretary general Gustave Kaliwo, spokesperson Jessie Kabwira, and senior party official Felix Jumbe, among others.
Furthermore, the MCP’s recent dismissal of its own youth leader, Frank Chiwanda, allegedly without following proper disciplinary procedures, adds fuel to the fire of hypocrisy leveled against the party.
MCP’s Fear and DPP’s Resurgence
The DPP suggests that the MCP’s response to the outcome of their disciplinary hearing stems from a deeper fear.
The prospect that the DPP’s renewed unity and resolve can spell the end for the ruling party.
The DPP expresses confidence that Malawians, weary of economic hardships and disillusioned by perceived incompetence within the MCP, will rally behind the united and strong DPP in the 2025 elections.
The DPP believes that by electing their presidential candidate, Peter Mutharika, they can save the country from what they perceive as an economic mess created by the MCP.
Accountability and the Road Ahead
In addition to highlighting past failures and pointing fingers, both parties acknowledge the importance of accountability.
The DPP pledges to put forward strong leadership in Parliament and promising to hold the government accountable for its actions.
It is this commitment that the MCP seemingly fears, raising questions about their willingness to be held responsible for their governance decisions.
Conclusion
As tensions rise between the DPP and the MCP following the DPP’s disciplinary hearing, Malawi’s political landscape is embroiled in controversy and uncertainty.
With accusations flying from both sides, it remains to be seen how this clash will shape the future of the country.
As Malawians bear witness to these developments, they are left contemplating which party best represents their hopes for a brighter economic future and effective governance.
In a remarkable display of investigative work, the police in the capital Lilongwe have successfully apprehended seven young men suspected of stealing motorcycles from a Chinese national’s warehouse.
This significant breakthrough comes after a prior incident where criminals,aided by the shop’s security guards, had managed to haul away a staggering amount of motorcycles and clothing.
The recovery of stolen motorcycles has shed light on a larger network of criminals operating in Lilongwe.
Unraveling the Mystery
According to Lilongwe Police Station Public Relations Officer (PRO) Hastings Chigalu, last year’s heist involving the shop yielded a grand total of 46 motorcycles and 84 bales of clothing, collectively worth K155 million.
Delving deeper into the case, Chigalu disclosed that the recently apprehended suspects – Davie Livalo, Paul Mkambeni, Aaron Jere, Chifundo Makele, Ken Mbewe, Tamandani Matope, and Chifundo Phiri – were linked to the stolen goods.
The police had ascertained that they were involved in the motorcycle taxi business within Lilongwe, specifically in areas 25 and 50, utilizing the stolen motorcycles.
The Raid and Recoveries
Utilizing their newfound information, the police initiated a raid on the suspects’ residences, resulting in the recovery of six stolen motorcycles.
However, their pursuit did not end there, as they continued their efforts to locate more stolen goods.
In a joint effort with the authorities in Nkhotakota,further five motorcycles were discovered.
These successful recoveries have provided investigators with valuable leads to pursue.
The Elusive Ring Leader
While significant progress has been made, the police remain resolute in their efforts to bring the entire criminal network to justice.
Investigators have identified a key suspect believed to be the ring leader, known as Nana.
A manhunt has been launched to capture this individual, who is presumed to possess vital knowledge about the inner workings of the operation.
Conclusion
The recent crackdown on motorcycle thieves operating in Lilongwe marks a significant victory for law enforcement.
The police are diligently piecing together evidence, connecting the dots, and tracking down those responsible for a series of audacious thefts.
The recovery of stolen motorcycles and the arrests of individuals associated with the crimes provide hope that the full extent of this criminal network will soon be exposed and dismantled.
The dedication and perseverance of the police in Lilongwe offer the city’s residents a renewed sense of security, reinforcing the message that crime will not go unpunished in their community.
