A 62-year-old woman, Chrissy M’dala, has been found dead in her maize garden in Balaka District.
According to Balaka Police Spokesperson, Gladson M’bumpha, the incident happened at Mangani Village in Traditional Authority Nsamala in the district.
M’bumpha says that on Monday, March 30, 2026 at around 06:00 hours, the woman left home for her maize garden which is about two kilometres from her home and did not report back till on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at around 06:00 hours when the relatives started searching for her.
Balaka Police Spokesperson, Gladson M’bumpha,
He adds that around 09:00 hours, it was when the woman was found in her maize garden while dead with a hoe beside her.
According to him, The matter was reported to Police who in turn rushed to the scene and the deadbody was taken to Balaka District Hospital for postmortem.
Mbumpha said autopsy on the body revealed that the cause of the death was cardiac arrest, secondary to hypertension.
The United Democratic Front (UDF) has strongly criticized the government following a sharp increase in fuel prices, warning that the move will deepen the economic hardships already facing Malawians.
In a statement released on Wednesday, April 1, the party expressed concern over the jump in fuel prices from K4,965 to K6,600 per litre, describing the adjustment as a heavy burden on ordinary citizens.
UDF argued that the increase will have a ripple effect across the economy, driving up the cost of essential goods and services and worsening the cost of living crisis.
Atupele Muluzi
The party further linked the price hike to the continued weakening of the Malawi Kwacha, saying the currency’s instability is amplifying the country’s economic challenges.
According to UDF, the situation reflects broader structural weaknesses in economic management, which they say require urgent and practical solutions.
As part of its recommendations, the party has urged the government to fully utilize the Nacala Corridor as a strategic route to reduce fuel transportation costs.
UDF believes that improved logistics and efficient use of regional trade routes could significantly ease pressure on fuel prices.
The party also called for greater transparency and accountability from institutions such as the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA), stressing the need for fair and consistent operations.
It emphasized that Malawians deserve clear explanations and policies that address their struggles rather than decisions that intensify economic strain.
UDF warned that without decisive action, the rising fuel costs could trigger broader economic instability, affecting businesses and households alike.
The statement also reflects growing public concern over the rising cost of living, with many citizens already struggling to cope with increasing prices of basic commodities.
As pressure mounts, the party has challenged the government to act swiftly and implement sustainable measures that will protect citizens from further economic hardship.
The Public Affairs Committee (PAC) has urged Christians in the country to lead with a spirit of love and unity during this Easter season.
The organization’s spokesperson, Gilford Matonga, said that Christians should engage in acts of compassion, such as helping those in need, following the example of Jesus Christ.
He emphasized that Easter is not only a time of reflection, but also an opportunity for believers to actively demonstrate kindness, forgiveness, and generosity within their communities.
Matonga
Matonga added that people in the country should abandon selfish behavior, including practices such as corruption and fraud, among others.
He noted that such vices continue to hinder national development and erode trust in public institutions.
The Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) of Lesotho, John Maphepe, is in Malawi on a study tour focused on Information and Communication Technology (ICT), electoral operations, and election logistics.
The visit comes as Lesotho prepares for its general elections scheduled for 2028.
Maphepe says the commission chose Malawi for the tour due to the long-standing relationship between the two countries and Malawi’s notable experience in managing electoral processes.
He expressed optimism that the delegation will gain valuable insights into the administration and management of elections.
John Maphephe
Meanwhile, Chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), Annabel Mtalimanja, has expressed confidence that the engagement will strengthen cooperation between the two commissions on electoral matters.
Mtalimanja says the interaction provides an opportunity to share experience
Zambia has had a rich presidential history since gaining independence in 1964, with seven official presidents and one acting president leading the nation.
The first president was Kenneth Kaunda, who led the country from October 24, 1964, until November 2, 1991, playing a crucial role in Zambia’s struggle for independence from British rule. Kaunda’s leadership and charm rallied the people, leading to Zambia gaining its freedom.
Kaunda’s government allowed multiple political parties initially, but he later declared Zambia a one-party state in 1973, citing unity and stability as reasons. During his time in office, Zambia faced economic struggles due to its reliance on copper exports and foreign aid.
Zambian Presidents
In 1991, Frederick Chiluba succeeded Kaunda, introducing multi-party democracy and serving until January 2, 2002. Chiluba’s presidency marked a significant shift towards democratic governance.
Levy Mwanawasa took office on January 2, 2002, focusing on anti-corruption efforts and improving living standards. He served until his death on August 19, 2008.
Rupiah Banda assumed the presidency after Mwanawasa’s death, serving until September 23, 2011. Banda emphasized economic growth and development.
Michael Sata became president on September 23, 2011, initiating infrastructure development projects. Unfortunately, he passed away on October 28, 2014.
Guy Scott briefly served as acting president after Sata’s death, before Edgar Lungu took office on January 20, 2015. Lungu served two terms, focusing on infrastructure expansion.
Hakainde Hichilema, the current president, assumed office on August 24, 2021, prioritizing economic revival and anti-corruption efforts.
*The Office of the Vice President*
The Office of the Vice President supports the President and assumes the presidency if the President is unable to serve. Notable vice presidents include Reuben Kamanga, Simon Kapwepwe, and Mutale Nalumango, the current Vice President.
