By Agatha kadzinje
Vice President Dr. Michael Usi has condemned the misconduct of individuals in positions of power who are delaying the distribution of lean season relief to beneficiaries.
Speaking at MDC Stadium in Chilomoni, Blantyre, on Tuesday when he officially launched the lean season relief distribution for Blantyre City, Usi revealed that there was evidence that some influential people are intentionally slowing the process to pocket from the initiative.
Usi emphasized that the maize should be distributed only to those in genuine need, not individuals who are capable of supporting themselves.
“In this country, there are people experiencing severe hunger and cannot afford to buy maize. Only such people should benefit. Those in offices must not exploit this initiative for personal gain,” Usi said.
He also criticized the recurring practice of the same individuals receiving relief every year, reiterating that the initiative is not based on party affiliation.
“Every person in need must receive maize, regardless of their political affiliations. We must set politics aside and avoid using such initiatives for campaigns or personal interests,” he added.
Usi encouraged Malawians to question authorities whenever they suspect malpractice, noting that transparency and accountability improve the process.
The Vice President disclosed that he had been sent by the State President to monitor the distribution in the Southern region and assured the public that the process would be conducted transparently.
He commended Blantyre City Council Chief Executive Officer, Denis Chinseu for his dedication and urged him to take punitive measures against any signs of corruption.
Chinseu admitted there were challenges in the initial stages of the distribution process.
“There were issues, particularly with identifying the rightful beneficiaries. Some undeserving individuals sought to be included, and certain officers tasked with beneficiary registration failed to perform their duties properly,” Chinseu said.
He noted that the council had restructured the team handling logistics and hoped this would eliminate complaints moving forward.
“Twenty-three wards will benefit from the initiative, with 2,400 bags of maize distributed to beneficiaries on Tuesday. We are optimistic the process will run smoothly,” Chinseu added.
Speaking in an interview, one of the beneficiaries, Maria Kalombola, from Mwachangu Village under Traditional Authority Machinjiri, praised the initiative, stating that it would alleviate hunger for many families.
“As a young mother, I struggle to feed my family. This maize will sustain us for some time. I thank the government for this program and hope it will continue to support more families,” Kalombola said.
The Vice President also officially launched the lean season food insecurity response program in Thyolo on Thursday, where he reiterated the importance of nonpartisan politics in the initiative.
