Former President of Malawi, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, took to his Facebook page recently to engage with his supporters and announce a new communication platform as part of his political comeback. In a message titled “Dear supporters, friends, and all,” Mutharika encouraged his followers to join him on his journey towards what he calls a “#ReturnToProvenLeadership.”
The crowd puller statesman, who served as Malawi’s president from 2014 to 2020, is signaling a return to active political engagement as the country gears up for the next election cycle. Mutharika’s message emphasized his commitment to reaching out to the people of Malawi through various channels, and his latest effort is the launch of a WhatsApp channel to directly engage with his supporters.
“We will leave no stone unturned and no avenue unexplored just to make Malawi better again,” Mutharika wrote. He invited his supporters to be a part of what he described as a story of triumph by following his WhatsApp channel. The link to the channel was shared as part of the message, where he promised to provide updates, events, and information relevant to his political movement.
In addition to the announcement, Mutharika reminded Malawians that voter registration for the upcoming elections will begin soon. “Get ready to register,” he urged, stressing the importance of being prepared to participate in the democratic process. This call to action underlines Mutharika’s effort to mobilize his base and galvanize new supporters as he prepares for a potential return to power.
The message appears to resonate with his supporters who continue to advocate for his leadership, praising his previous tenure for economic and infrastructural developments. Under the banner of “#ReturnToProvenLeadership,” Mutharika is expected to mount a significant campaign to regain the trust of the electorate.
As Malawi approaches its voter registration and election period, Mutharika’s use of digital platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook signifies a strategic move to modernize his outreach efforts and reconnect with voters, especially the youth.
Stay tuned for updates and engage directly with Professor Mutharika’s campaign via his new WhatsApp channel: WhatsApp Link.
The revitalisation of the Marka-Bangula Railway System stands as a testament to the Malawian government’s unwavering dedication to transforming the nation’s transportation infrastructure. By restoring and upgrading this crucial rail link between Malawi and Mozambique, the government aims to enhance the efficiency of transporting goods across borders, significantly reducing costs for businesses and strengthening the economic ties between the two nations.
Situated in southern Malawi, the Marka-Bangula railway line has historically been a vital corridor for trade. The rehabilitation of this line is not only an infrastructural development but also a strategic move to boost the country’s transportation sector. As Malawi continues to seek ways to improve its logistics network, this railway system is poised to play an instrumental role in advancing the country’s economic agenda by facilitating more efficient trade with Mozambique, Malawi’s gateway to international markets.
Transportation costs in Malawi have historically been high, largely due to an over-reliance on road transport. The Marka-Bangula railway offers a cost-effective alternative, particularly for bulk goods, which will ease pressure on the country’s road network. Rail transport is typically cheaper and more efficient over long distances, making it an ideal solution for the movement of goods such as agricultural produce, minerals, and industrial materials.
By linking key trading points in Malawi to Mozambique’s ports, the railway will also reduce delays and costs associated with exporting goods overseas. This revitalisation project aligns with the government’s broader efforts to reduce trade barriers and improve access to global markets, thus boosting Malawi’s export potential.
The rehabilitation of the Marka-Bangula railway also underscores the government’s focus on fostering sustainable transportation solutions. As concerns about environmental sustainability rise globally, Malawi is keen on reducing its carbon footprint through investments in rail systems, which are generally more environmentally friendly compared to road transport. This railway project is a forward-looking initiative that not only addresses present economic needs but also safeguards the future by promoting sustainable development practices.
Beyond its economic benefits, the Marka-Bangula railway is expected to have significant social impacts, providing employment opportunities during its rehabilitation and operational phases. The local communities along the railway line will benefit from improved access to markets, services, and employment, further enhancing regional development.
The Marka-Bangula railway system is more than just a national project—it is a symbol of Malawi’s commitment to regional integration. The line forms a critical link in the regional transport network that connects Malawi to the broader Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. By strengthening the railway infrastructure, Malawi is positioning itself as a key player in regional trade and logistics, facilitating smoother movement of goods across borders and fostering closer economic ties with Mozambique and other neighbouring countries.
Ultimately, the revitalisation of the Marka-Bangula railway system is a significant step in Malawi’s long-term economic strategy. It reflects the government’s understanding of the critical role that efficient, sustainable transportation systems play in driving economic growth. As the railway line becomes fully operational, it is expected to lower the costs of doing business, enhance the competitiveness of Malawi’s exports, and create a ripple effect of economic development throughout the region.
In conclusion, the Marka-Bangula railway rehabilitation is not only a transport upgrade but also a bold step towards a more integrated, sustainable, and prosperous future for Malawi. By prioritising infrastructure development that supports trade and reduces costs, the government is laying the groundwork for economic growth that benefits all Malawians.
Fresh from clinching the FDH Cup after beating champions FCB Nyasa Big Bullets on post match penalties, Blue Eagles continues to sour when they edged Wimbe United 4-0 on Saturday to get to the top of Group B in the central region premier league.
The eagles have now 28 points from 12 games displacing Wimbe United who now come second with 27 points having played 13 games.
The eagles were on target in the 7th and 13th minute of the game through a brace from Gilbert Chirwa and Francis Maloya extended the lead in the 19th and 80th minute to seal the game at 4-0.
Eagles assistant coach, Sankhani Mkandawire said he is happy that the team is back to the summit of the group’s table.
“It was not easy, we knew they are a good side and were coming from a win but we could not allow to get a draw or loss at our own backyard after emerging champions in the FDH cup,” he said.
His counterpart, Ziggy Nkhata of Wimbe attributed the loss to transport challenge they encountered on their way to the venue.
“It was a difficult game we have to accept but we had a breakdown as we were coming such that we arrived abit late and our players did not have ample time to do some warm-up,” he said.
He, however, said they would get back to their drawing board to rectify the challenges they face to do well.
Extreme FC and Mitundu Baptist are topping Group A and C respectively with 24 and 26 points.
For topping group B, Blue Eagles have won 8 games with 4 draws and have never tasted a defeat.
Speaking in an interview, Central Region football association general secretary Antonio Manda said he is impressed with the league’s progress.
” As Central Region Football Association, we are on cloud nine because we haven’t registered any pockets of violence since the inception of the league,” said Manda.
Pic: Blue Eagles and Wimbe players scrambling for the ball.
The Mbakuwaku Movement for Development (MMD) has announced a delay in its major convention to select candidates for the upcoming elections, citing financial challenges as the primary reason. This decision comes as the party grapples with budgetary constraints that have impacted its ability to organize the event as planned.
Peter Kuwani, the leader of MMD, confirmed the postponement, stating that the party is working diligently to address the financial issues that have necessitated the delay. “We are committed to conducting a transparent and orderly convention,” Kuwani said. “However, we need to resolve our financial difficulties before proceeding with the selection process.”
Kuwani also reflected on the party’s experiences from the 2019 elections, where MMD faced several setbacks. During the 2019 tripartite elections, the party was left out of some electoral processes and faced difficulties with candidate representation. According to Kuwani, the party was excluded from certain aspects of the electoral framework, including challenges related to the nomination of candidates.
Peter Kuwani- no funds for the convention
A notable concern for the party is the absence of a unified approach with other political entities. Kuwani criticized the current political environment, saying that agreements with other parties have often been aimed more at self-interest rather than genuine collaboration. This lack of consensus, he argued, has hindered effective alliances and coalitions.
In response to the concerns raised by Kuwani, Sangwani Mwafulirwa, a spokesperson for the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), refuted claims of partisan exclusion. Mwafulirwa stated that all parties were subject to the same rules and regulations in the 2019 elections and that no party was unfairly treated.
In the 2019 elections, MMD’s leader, Peter Dominic Kuwani, secured 32,473 votes. Despite the party’s challenges, Kuwani’s performance highlighted a significant level of support and underscored the potential for future electoral success.
In conclusion, the MMD navigates its financial challenges and prepares for its delayed convention, the party’s future will depend on its ability to resolve these issues and unite its members. The postponement has sparked debate about the party’s strategy and its place within Malawi’s political landscape. Moving forward, the focus will be on addressing these financial hurdles and preparing for a competitive and transparent electoral process.
During the recent People’s Party (PP) convention, a powerful proverb was introduced, stating: “Munthu osaona sayambana ndi yemwe akumuyendetsa chifukwa sakafika komwe akupita osaonayo, owona uja akabwelera.” This translates to “A blind person does not quarrel with the one guiding them because they will not reach their destination without the guide. But if the guide turns back, so does the blind person.”
This proverb has a deep and symbolic meaning in the context of Malawi’s political journey. It reflects the complex relationships between politicians, political parties, and alliances that have shaped the country since its transition to multiparty democracy in 1994. Below is a detailed analysis of the proverb and its relevance to Malawi’s political history and current situation.
1) Dependence on political alliances
At the heart of the proverb is the idea of dependency. In Malawi’s political environment, many leaders have relied heavily on alliances with other parties to gain or retain power. The “blind person” in this context can represent a politician or a political party that lacks an independent vision or the strength to lead on its own. These figures often need the support of larger or more influential parties to navigate the political landscape.
In the proverb, the blind person who quarrels with their guide represents a politician who challenges or overestimates their own abilities despite being reliant on others to succeed. In Malawi, several political figures have risen to power not through their own strength, but by forming alliances. However, once in power, some of these individuals have quarreled with their guiding partners, believing they could now chart their own course independently. The outcome, as the proverb suggests, is that without the guide, they are likely to lose their way.
2) Malawi’s political journey since 1994
The reference to “starting in 1994 and still being blind in 2024” in the analysis points to the fact that many politicians have been in the system for decades, but they have not yet found a clear and independent path for themselves or the country. Malawi’s return to multiparty democracy in 1994 was a significant turning point, but since then, many political figures have struggled to establish lasting leadership. They have often relied on coalitions or switched parties to remain relevant.
This proverb could be highlighting the fact that Malawi’s political landscape has seen little progress in terms of new, visionary leadership. Instead, old players remain, still dependent on external forces to maintain power. The journey, despite spanning 30 years, appears to be going in circles, with no clear destination in sight.
3) Critique of leadership without vision
The proverb also offers a critique of leadership that lacks a clear vision. In Malawi, leaders who rely solely on the support of other parties or alliances, without cultivating their own political identity or policies, are like the “blind person” in the proverb. Such leadership can only go as far as the guide takes them. When the guide (a more powerful party or alliance) withdraws support, the leader is left stranded, unable to move forward.
This could be seen as a warning to political leaders in Malawi to develop their own clear visions for the country rather than relying solely on political deals or alliances. The proverb suggests that true leadership requires the ability to see where you are going, not just being led by others.
4) Implications for current political dynamics
In today’s political context, the proverb may be particularly relevant to some of the political figures or parties that have been propped up by alliances or coalition agreements. These parties or leaders might be overestimating their strength and quarreling with the very alliances that have kept them afloat. The proverb’s message seems to be clear: without the support of others, and without a clear vision, these political actors risk being left behind, just as the blind person is left stranded when their guide turns back.
5) The call for political independence and vision
Ultimately, the proverb calls for political independence and visionary leadership. Malawi’s political future depends on leaders who can chart their own course and not just follow others. Political parties and leaders must develop clear ideologies, policies, and strategies that resonate with the people. Without this, they risk being seen as blind followers, dependent on the shifting winds of political alliances rather than capable of leading the nation forward.
Conclusion
The proverb shared at the People’s Party convention offers a profound reflection on the current state of Malawian politics. It highlights the dangers of over-reliance on political alliances and the importance of visionary leadership. As the country looks toward the future, political figures must heed this wisdom, ensuring they are not merely being led, but actively leading the country toward progress. Leaders need to open their eyes, find their own path, and stop relying on others to show them the way.
