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MEC expresses surprise over criticism of phase two of voter registration exercise

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MEC expresses surprise over criticism of phase two of voter registration exercise

By Burnett Munthali

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has expressed surprise over concerns raised by some individuals and organizations claiming that the second phase of the voter registration exercise is not proceeding smoothly.

MEC Chairperson Annabel Mtalimanja dismissed the concerns, stating that the commission has not identified any major challenges disrupting the process. She assured the public that MEC remains committed to ensuring the success of the voter registration exercise.

Mtalimanja



“We do not see any significant issues affecting the second phase of the registration exercise,” Mtalimanja said. “As such, we will release a comprehensive report at the end of this phase to provide a clear picture of how it has progressed.”

The second phase of voter registration is expected to conclude on Friday, with MEC scheduled to evaluate the overall performance of the phase thereafter.

However, the process has faced criticism from various organizations and opposition parties, who have questioned MEC’s handling of the electoral preparations. These groups have raised concerns over transparency, efficiency, and inclusivity in the registration process.

Despite these concerns, MEC has reiterated its commitment to delivering a credible electoral process. As the exercise nears its conclusion, all eyes will be on the commission’s report to determine the success of this crucial phase in preparation for the upcoming elections.

Fuel loading awaits funds: 210 tankers idle for weeks in Dar es Salaam and Beira

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Fuel loading awaits funds: 210 tankers idle for weeks in Dar es Salaam and Beira



By Burnett Munthali

A fuel crisis looms as 210 fuel tankers destined for Malawi remain idle in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and Beira, Mozambique, awaiting payment for fuel loading. The delay has raised concerns about potential disruptions to fuel supplies in the country.

Reports indicate that the fuel tankers have been stranded for several weeks as authorities work to mobilize the necessary funds for loading. The situation has triggered speculation about whether Malawi might soon face fuel shortages, given the extended delay in transporting the essential commodity.

The National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) has moved to reassure the public, stating that the situation is under control. In a statement, NOCMA officials acknowledged the delays but assured Malawians that measures were being taken to resolve the issue.



“We are working with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that funds are secured and that the fuel loading process resumes without further delay,” a NOCMA spokesperson said.

Experts warn that if the situation persists, Malawi could experience fuel shortages, affecting transportation, industry, and other key sectors of the economy. The timing is particularly concerning as the holiday season approaches, a period marked by increased demand for fuel.

Economic analyst Maxwell Chitowe highlighted the broader implications of the delay:
“This situation, if not resolved promptly, could disrupt supply chains and lead to higher fuel prices, which would further strain households and businesses already grappling with economic challenges.”

Stakeholders in the energy sector have called for urgent intervention to address the financial bottlenecks delaying fuel transportation. They have urged the government to prioritize the allocation of funds to ensure steady fuel supply and avoid a national crisis.

While NOCMA has promised a resolution, government officials have also sought to calm fears, stating that efforts are underway to release the funds needed for the tankers. The Ministry of Energy emphasized that maintaining fuel supply is a top priority.

As 210 fuel tankers await loading in Dar es Salaam and Beira, the situation underscores the need for efficient and proactive management of the country’s fuel supply chain. Malawians will be hoping that the authorities can swiftly resolve the delays and avert a fuel crisis that could have far-reaching consequences for the economy.

Chakwera stands firm against fuel price hikes

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Chakwera stands firm against fuel price hikes

By Burnett Munthali

President Lazarus Chakwera has rejected calls for the government to allow its agencies to increase fuel prices, citing the need to protect Malawians from further economic hardships. The president’s stance comes amid rising global oil prices and pressure from stakeholders who argue that higher prices would stabilize fuel supply in the country.

Speaking during a recent event, President Chakwera emphasized that any decision to raise fuel prices must carefully consider the economic impact on ordinary citizens already burdened by inflation and high costs of living.

Chakwera


“My government is committed to ensuring that Malawians do not shoulder unnecessary burdens. We must find alternative solutions to address fuel supply challenges without compromising the well-being of our people,” Chakwera said.

The Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA) and other stakeholders have advocated for fuel price adjustments, arguing that the current prices do not reflect market realities. They warn that failure to adjust prices could lead to persistent fuel shortages as importers struggle to recover costs.

“We understand the president’s concerns, but the current fuel pricing structure is unsustainable. Importers are operating at a loss, and this jeopardizes the entire supply chain,” said a MERA official who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Opposition leaders and economic experts have weighed in, with some accusing the government of politicizing the issue. They argue that artificially suppressing fuel prices will lead to further economic challenges, including scarcity of fuel and black market activities.

“While the president’s intentions are commendable, the government must balance populist policies with economic realities. A pragmatic approach is needed to address this crisis,” said economist Victor Mbewe.

President Chakwera has directed MERA and other stakeholders to explore alternative measures, such as reducing operational inefficiencies and diversifying energy sources, to stabilize the fuel sector. Meanwhile, the public remains anxious about the potential for long queues and erratic supply at service stations.

As the debate continues, the government’s ability to navigate these challenges without compromising economic stability or public trust will be closely watched.

Ndirande-Matope primary school triumphs in road safety poster competition

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Ndirande-Matope primary school triumphs in road safety poster competition

By Chisomo Phiri

Rays of Hope, in partnership with TotalEnergies through the VIA Project, on Wednesday awarded Ndirande-Matope Primary School a prize of K5 million for creating the best poster in the third phase of the VIA’s road safety poster competition.

The ceremony took place at the Malawi Sun Hotel in Blantyre.

In an interview with journalists, VIA Project Coordinator Promise Mjima emphasized the significance of road safety, stating that Rays of Hope’s primary focus is ensuring learners’ safety while traveling to and from school.



He highlighted that the project began in 2023 and stressed that road safety is closely tied to visibility.

Mjima explained that the prize will enable Matope Primary School to add visible elements to promote safety, such as painting school infrastructure.

On his part, Ndirande-Matope Primary School’s Project Patron, Grecian Elias, attributed their success to focusing on safety measures rather than depicting accidents.

“We emphasized safety measures in our poster.We decided to draw something concerning safety, so that it should not be focusing much on accidents, but rather the other way around,” he said.

TotalEnergies Marketing Malawi Limited’s Corporate Affairs Manager, Sekaninge Kaliati, pledged continued support for road safety initiatives.

“This is a very important initiative for us, as we focus on corporate social responsibility, and one of our key areas is safety, specifically road safety,” she said.

Five primary schools participated in the competition, with Bangwe, Chilomoni, Mankhetha, and Chitawira receiving certificates, badges, and a trophy as consolation prizes.

Nankhumwa urges UTM members to unite after convention

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Nankhumwa urges UTM members to unite after convention

By Chisomo Phiri

The People’s Development Party (PDP) president, Kondwani Nankhumwa, has urged individuals who failed to secure positions in the United Transformation Movement (UTM) National Governing Council (NGC) during the recent party’s convention not to abandon the party.

UTM held its elective convention on November 17 this year in Mzuzu.

Speaking at a press briefing at Golden Peacock Hotel in Lilongwe on Tuesday, Nankhumwa,said UTM members must unite and support the current leadership, emphasizing that working together will strengthen the party.

Nankhumwa



The PDP president also congratulated Dalitso Kabambe, who was elected UTM president after defeating former Secretary General Patricia Kaliati, Director of Economic Planning Newton Kambala, and businessman Matthews Mtumbuka.

Nankhumwa further reiterated that, in line with their party’s policies, the PDP will not rush into alliances with any political party ahead of next year’s general elections.

During the UTM convention, prominent figures, including the party’s patron Noel Masangwi, Kaliati and Kambala, failed to secure seats in the NGC.

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