By Chisomo Phiri

The  United Democratic Front (UDF) has called on President Peter Mutharika to urgently address the nation on Malawi’s deepening fuel, foreign exchange, and cost-of-living crisis.

In a press statement signed by its leader Atupele Muluzi, UDF expresses concern over the country’s rapidly deteriorating economic situation, urging the Head of State to communicate directly and transparently with Malawians on measures being taken to resolve the crisis.

According to the UDF, Malawi is currently facing a severe shortage of fuel and foreign exchange, a situation that is disrupting transport, trade, agriculture, and the daily lives of millions.

The party notes that government spokespersons have already confirmed that fuel reserves are depleted and that the country lacks sufficient foreign currency to import fuel.

UDF further  says the Reserve Bank of Malawi (RBM ) has been forced to liquidate part of the country’s sovereign gold reserves as an emergency measure to finance fuel imports, underscoring the gravity of the crisis.

The party has also raised concern over the rising cost of living, which it says is placing immense pressure on households, small businesses, and farmers.

It says prices of basic goods continue to increase, while civil servants have reportedly protested over wages and working conditions and tobacco farmers, a key source of foreign exchange, are also facing difficult market conditions, potentially weakening export performance.

UDF criticizes what it describes as inconsistent and contradictory communication from the government, arguing that conflicting statements about the state of national reserves have eroded public confidence and created uncertainty for businesses and investors.

While acknowledging the impact of global factors such as disruptions in international energy markets linked to conflict in the Middle East, the UDF maintains that Malawi’s economic challenges are largely rooted in structural weaknesses.

It says these include fiscal mismanagement, a narrow export base, limited economic diversification, and unresolved concerns over the management of public resources.

UDF also cites the unresolved Amaryllis scandal, alleging that significant public funds may have been misappropriated through opaque transactions involving state institutions.

It has therefore called for a full and transparent investigation and the prosecution of those found responsible.

To address the crisis, the UDF outlines several immediate actions for the government and these include a direct address by the President outlining the state of national reserves and a credible recovery plan; the presentation of a comprehensive and time-bound economic stabilization plan to Parliament; full disclosure on the liquidation of gold reserves; and decisive action to ensure accountability in the Amaryllis case.

Despite the challenges, the UDF expresses confidence that Malawi’s economic situation can be stabilized with strong leadership, transparency, and sound management of public finances.

“The people of Malawi cannot wait indefinitely.They need answers, a clear plan, and leadership that speaks with honesty and authority,” reads part of the statement.