Many Malawians largely ignored a nationalwide demonstration for Thursday by Consumers Association of Malawi (Cama) to protest at economic crisis which the consumer watchdog blames on President Joyce Banda’s economic policies.

Many people did not take to the streets but shops, banks and schools remained closed.

Nyasa Times correspondents in the commercial city of Blantyre and the capital Lilongwe said there was heavy presence of police and not many people have turned up as it were during July 20 last year’s anti-government protests.

Kapito led a A march from Kanjedza Primary School into the Kenyatta Drive through Chinyonga to Kwacha Roundabout via the Army Camp to Civic Offices to present the petition

The consumers’ grievances include a demand for a reversal of the floatation of the kwacha; sale of the presidential jet and Mercedes Benz vehicles for ministers; reduction in the presidential convoy, minimising presidential and ministerial travels both local and international, the bloated cabinet; checking corruption and the declaration of assets by the President.

But Banda has openly declared she cannot reverse the kwacha floatation, cannot declare assets and stop travelling.The demonstration also appeared to have little impact in the northern city of Mzuzu where it was raining.

Kapito led a march from Kanjedza Primary School into the Kenyatta Drive through Chinyonga to Kwacha Roundabout via the Army Camp to Civic Offices to present the petition in Blantyre

In the capital Lilongwe, activist Ben Chiza Mkandawire and Hebrew Misomali led a small number of protestors to present a petition at the District Commissioner’s office.

But CAMA boss John Kapito who was flanked by academic and activist Jessie Kabwila, lawyer Seodi White at Kanjedza primary school, the assembly point of Blantyre demonstrations, said he was not disappointed and would call another protests if prices of goods rise.

“We are actually happy that some people took heed of our call, given the political culture of intimidation in this country,” he said.

“This is not the end. We will stage more demonstrations if the economic crisis will be deepening,” he said.

Kapito claimed government had withheld the fuel price hike, saying if they will raise the pump prices, he will lead consumers to hold protests again.

“We will be back on the streets with protests when prices of goods go up,” he said.

Kapito then led a  march from Kanjedza Primary School into the Kenyatta Drive through Chinyonga to Kwacha Roundabout via the Army Camp to Civic Offices to present  the petition.

He said their petition gives government 21 days ultimatum to address their concerns including raising civil servants salaries.

“Failure to address our concerns, we will march again and even camp at State House,” he said.

President Banda denies responsibility for the economic crisis.

Soon after succeeding the late president Bingu wa Mutharika last April, Banda’s administration introduced free market economic reforms, including a 49 percent devaluation of the kwacha and its subsequent floatation, re-introduction of the automatic pricing mechanism (APM) on fuel and deregulation of water and electricity tariffs.

The Banda administration also crafted an austerity national budget to cut on spending in the face of dwindling domestic revenues and donor aid.

The measures were part of a prescription aimed at restoring the IMF-supported economic programme in Malawi, the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), which was suspended during the Mutharika administration in 2011.

The Malawi leader said in the short term, it is expected that the reforms will have a negative impact on livelihoods of the people.

Ben Chiza Mkandawire speaking in Lilongwe

The banner during demos on Thursday

The protestors

Banner

Kapito flanked by Seodi White in Blantyre

Presenting the petition in Lilongwe entral Region organising committee chairperson Hebrews Misomali

In Lilongwe, there were be no marches through any of the streets within the City of Lilongwe,the demonstrators assembled at the Lilongwe district commissioner’s (DC) office building where they presented the petition to the DC. In the picture Ben Chiza MKandawire and Hebrew Misomali

Sigh Trust, a private firm, has accused government of dubiously selling its two plots in Lilongwe to Economic Planning and Development Minister, Goodall Gondwe and deputy governor of Reserve Bank of Malawi Mary Nkosi.

According to documents filed at Blantyre High Court Commercial Division seen by Nyasa Times, the Trust through its lawyer, Ambokire Salimu, the Trust  has since claimed K147 million for lost rentals, K1 billion as value of the two plots, arguing that it bought the plots in 2000 from the embassy of Germany.

“The Trust holds the Malawi government responsible for the loss of the two private plots and this letter serves as a notice of the Trust’s intention to sue the Malawi government for the value of the plots and lost rentals and interests on the same,” say court documents, which also indicate that if the Attorney General (AG) fails to satisfy the claim within the prescribed period, the Trust may proceed with the action and judgment may be pronounced against the AG.

”We are also claiming reimbursements of collection costs and costs of proceedings as well as interests based at current banking rates” said Salimu.

Goodall Gondwe: At his mansion in Lilongwe

He added: “We have given government through the Attorney General 14 days to respond or will proceed with action and judgement may be entered against it”.

Salimu said the Trust bought the two plots located in Area 10 in 2000 from Germany Embassy and was issued with Land Certificates on January 25 2008, arguing that they have valid documents substantiating their claims.

He said his client has been prompted to commence legal battle after government leased one of its plots, Title number 10/105 which was allocated to Nkosi on May 1, 2004 while the other plot, Title number 10/50 to Goodall Edward Gondwe and Getrude Gondwe in July 2005 with their Lease Certificate issued on March 24, 2011.

The court documents revealed that Nkosi and the Gondwes started developing the plots despite the appraisal of the Trust’s interests in the land.

”The trust holds the Malawi Government responsible for the loss of the two plots and this letter serves as notice of the Trust’s intention to sue the Malawi Government for the value of the plots and lost rentals and interest on the same,” read the filed documents.

Attorney General Anthony Kamanga could not immediately comment.

There were more government security agents than consumers at the much hyped nationwide demonstrations in Mzuzu against the country’s economic malaise that has seen daily increases of prices of goods and services apart from eroding peoples’ purchasing power and meagre savings.

Perhaps people had heeded calls from various stakeholders not to participate in the planned demonstrations or there did not want to be like victims of the famous July 20^th 2011 demonstrations which turned violent and overzealous Police killed 20 unarmed protesters countrywide.

Members of the Consumer Association of Malawi (CAMA) Mzuzu Chapter numbered a paltry 40 against 150 for government security agents drawn from the army, national intelligence service and the Malawi Police service.

The small horde of marchers braved cold weather and incessant showers and trooped to the Mzuzu Civic centre via the recreation Centre road up to Mzuzu High Court round about… chanting anti government and austerity  songs.

Carring placards in Mzuzu

Mulungu reading the petition

Consumers hold demo in Mzuzu

A protestor carries a banner calling on President Banda to declare assets

“Tatopa ndi Bonya” “Malilpilo akwele” “Pang’ono pang’no Katundu atsike” “Ichepe misokho”

Many wore black clothes and tied black bandanas, a symbol one of the organisers indicated that Malawian consumers were in the mourning period for the alleged harsh economic environment.

Ironically, some security agents who infiltrated the marchers also donned the protestors’ regalia and chanted along. They held aloft some placards written “No more suffering in silence “Ukavu wakoma mbayamwe mu Malawi” and “no more to Kwacha floatation” among others.

In the Mzuzu central Business District, there was a heavy presence of heavily armed Police, some in riot gear and a phalanx of plain clothed Cops although it was business as usual but there less people than usual.

The march started at around 9.11am the Mzuzu upper stadium via the Recreational centre road, New Apostolic church, Mzuzu High Court roundabout and then the Civic office where the Marchers read their five paged petition which they later presented to Mzuzu City Boss Richard Hara, who was flanked by senior Police officers.

Joseph Msenga  Mulungu, a member of CAMA Mzuzu Chapter read the petition on behalf of the protestors, who included a few vendors and cross border traders.

Hara did not respond after receiving the petition.

The protestors gave government two weeks to respond to concerns raised in the petition warning that failure to do so will another countrywide demonstration.

According to the petition, a copy Nyasa Times  obtained, CAMA faults government for adopting the floatation of the Kwacha.

“We strongly believe that floatation of the Kwacha should have been done only after certain conditions were achieved such as adequate foreign reserves. This is also support by the IMF definition of a flexible exchange rate system which recognises the necessity for the authorities to intervene in order to defend it against speculative attacks,” Mulungu said.

He said Malawi should have started by addressing the problem of perpetually precarious foreign reserve position before adopting the flexible or floating regime.

In the petition, CAMA also demanded the immediate sale of the presidential jet, reduction of the two Km long presidential convoy and sale of ministerial cars claiming they were a drain on the country’s meagre taxes.

“Corruption is now rampant and mostly by the Executive and other arms of government. We find corruption to be one of the key drivers of poverty in this country.

“Hence we demand the President and vice to declare their assets with immediate effect so as to bring confidence in the leadership,” Mulungu said.

CAMA also demanded an increase of salaries and wages for workers to cushion them from high commodity costs.

“We are also demanding that each Ministry should have one PS, the presence of more than one PS… is a drain on our tax payers money. We are also shocked with the continued executive arrogance that seems not to take advice and criticism. This has been displayed by the many comments that have been uttered by the President at various forums,” Mulungu said.

Malawi Police in Zomba on Thursday arrested Peter Sapanga (35) for allegedly demonstrating on January 17 without seeking permission from the authorities.

Eastern Region Police spokesperson Thomeck Nyaude said the suspect is a businessperson in Zomba City and allegedly took to the streets to demonstrate while holding a placard written “Stop kwacha floatation, automatic fuel pricing, kuyendayenda ndi kulongolora.”

In the commercial city Blantyre, northern city of Mzuzu and the administrative capital Lilongwe, concerned consumers presented  a petition to authorities, protesting hardships created by current economic reforms.

Consumers Association of Malawi (Cama) sanctioned nationwide demonstrations and consumers are seeking a redress to ease the pain.

Demonstrators elsewhere showing one of the placards…Photo Jeromy Kadewere

But Police in Zomba said they were not informed of a demonstration in the old capital.

Said the police spokesperson: “Nobody in Zomba and the whole Eastern Region sought permission to hold demonstrations on January 17.”

He added: “ The District Commissioner, the Chief Executive Officer and the police got
no communication on the demonstrations from the organisers in Zomba. So, we warned the people that anybody doing the contrary will be arrested and charged.”

He added that the suspect is going to answer charges of conduct likely to cause breach of peace which is contrary to Section 181 of the Penal Code.

Sapanga comes from Jonathan Village, Traditional Authority Mpama in Chradzulu.

Demonstrators elsewhere showing one of the placards…Photo Jeromy Kadewere

Several hours ago, the country was featuring nationwide demonstrations organized by Consumer Association of Malawi (CAMA) during which they presented a petition to government for it to look into specific economic and governance issues that are affecting the citizens.

This was the first civil action on the streets of the country since the July 20, 2011 protests that claimed 21 lives. It was against such a barbaric background that many people viewed any street action by the citizens as a big gamble.

The outcome, however, is a great symbolic leap in as far as civil rights are concerned. It sends home a point that Malawi has taken a turn for the good within the past 10 months in which the country has changed regimes.

Nine months into her Presidency, Joyce Banda is proving to be an ideal leader every Malawian can look up to for emotional shelter, motherly love and wisdom.

Some of the marchers in Blantyre carried this placard….Photo Jeromy Kadewere

When the idea of nationwide demonstrations was being hatched months ago many people were busy reminiscing the July 20 scenario.

But the President played her cards well and analyzed issues within a specific trend.

Was she going to confront the organizers, was she going to use the Presidential voice to gain sympathy or instill fear?

Joyce Banda chose a different path altogether and it took many by surprise. She let the constitution go unhampered and gave people a nod they never expected.

“Kwa amene akufuna kupanga zionetsero asiyeni apange, ine sindingawaletse chifukwa ndi ufulu wao” (those who want to demonstrate can go ahead; I have no powers to deny them their constitutional right). This is all she could say.

It was in sharp contrast with the period preceding July 20 period when late Bingu wa Mutharika called upon his supporters to defend him; a time when when he christened them as cadets on May 15, 2011 and gave them a new role to be his development and security apparatus.

This time around Joyce Banda did not call anyone by strange and provocative names such as ankhwezule and she did not send her party stalwarts to terrorize fellow citizens prior to the march. She did not send any chap to obtain an injunction in the night to suppress the voices of the masses.

Instead she through her weight towards the Constitution and focused on her official engagements job as she welcomed two Heads of State, AU Chair and Benin President Yayi Boni and Kenya President Mwai Kibaki. It is this kind of conduct by the President that facilitated a smooth consumer action across the country.

This Presidential behavior is a good learning process for all political leaders who aspire for the high office in future. Brute-like conduct begets brutality while civility yields peace all the time.

The Malawi leader just made sure that lives and property were protected and as Commander- In- Chief of the Armed Forces she ensured that the disciplined forces had enough equipment and proper instruction to handle the situation professionally.

Many Malawians understand that if we want to recover from governance mediocrity of the past we must learn to coexist and respect the laws of the land at all times.

An important factor we can look at in future demonstrations is how it affects productivity and our economy at all levels. Even without traits of violence, it seems the demo card is being cherished by many workers who use it as a ploy to stay away from work. No wonder many stayed home either for fear of violence or just stealing an extra resting day from their employers.

As a country we must learn how to balance our constitutional rights and our responsibility to develop our country by staying at work and working hard at all times.

January 17 has surely gone and we love the fact that there was no intimidation, no hacking of online media sites like Nyasa Times, no injunctions and we are very sure there is not going to be a repeat of the Robert Chasowa scenario.

God Bless Malawi

Consumers Association of Malawi (Cama) boss John Kapito lets hundreds of consumers in the commercial capital Blantyre on Thursday to hold peaceful demonstrations against the economic hardships they are facing in the country.

Kapito who was joined by academic and activist Dr Jessie Kabwila and women rights activist, Seodi White presented a petition to Banda administration to review some of the economic reforms being undertaken.

The organizers amended the six-point petition to include two more points on salary adjustment for workers and the need to have permanent secretaries in government ministries.

There was tension in Blantyre with heavy presence of Police everywhere including all townships and offices, shops both in Limbe and Blantyre towns remained closed as business came to a standstill.

Kapito reading the petition

A walk in the two towns, one would only experience what appeared like a public holiday with a handful of people and few vendors braved the odds to ply their trade on the streets, and only few minibuses were operating.

The only visible operating institutions were banks only, which were heavily protected by armed Police officers.

Conspicuously, the law-enforcers mounted roadblocks in all roads into main towns of Limbe and Blantyre and no vehicle, apart from commercial minibuses, ferrying people to the demonstrations meeting points were barred, forcing people to walk on foot.

The parade started from Kanjedza Primary School, where Kapito and Kabwila retaliated, the demonstrations were another form of dialogue to raise concerns over the high cost of living, flotation of Kwacha, poor salaries for workers especially civil servants.

“For you to come out to participate in these demonstrations, really shamed the devil, although some are not here, but they are with us in spirit,” said the fearless Kapito.

“This is not about me; it’s about those feeling the pain of Kwacha flotation. It’s about teachers, Police officers who are paid peanuts and live in quarters called houses; they can’t march but we will do it for them. In the petition we are telling government, we are tired of Bonya [small fish],” Kapito said amidst cheers from the protesters.

Kabwila a professor at University of Malawi’s Chancellor College vowed to never stop protesting until government responds to their concerns.

“I never back off from anything I get myself into. I fought for the academic freedom till we won it, and I can’t pull out now. No money can buy me off because this is for the poor people areas who can’t afford what these people in positions and their luxurious lives, can afford. It’s for everyone who is feeling the pain of these so called economic reforms,” Kabwila challenged.

The protesters marched to Civic Centre through Kenyatta Drive road with intermittent stops along the way, chanting anti-government songs in dissatisfaction with current economic challenges the country is experiencing.

”Wakwiya ndi mfiti, wakwiya ndi mfiti…Tatopa ndi bonya, tatopa ndi bonya…..Wagulitsa Nyanja h***, wagulitsa Nyanja h***,” chanted the protesters while demanding Banda’s administration to listen to their grievances.

They carried different placards and led with vocal Black Moses, the demonstrators managed to stage peaceful demonstrations, contrary to wide suspicions and anticipations that they might spill over into vandalism, looting and teargas scenarios in a dejavu context of July 20 where almost 20 people were killed.

The Police on the other hand, managed to protect and control the tempo in a manner that will, for once, add a score on its CV, despite stopping some of those interested in townships from partaking in the demonstrations.

At Blantyre City Assembly (BCA) head offices at Civic Centre, Kapito joined with Kabwila-Kapasula and White handed the amended petition to District Commissioner (DC), Charles Makanga who was accompanied by BCA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Ted Nandolo.

However, a little drama ensued when the protesters refused to enter into the Civic Centre camps, opting to hand over the petition right at the main entrances.

Apart from Kwacha floatation, demands to sell controversial presidential jet and Mercedes Benz cars used by ministers and reduction of presidential convoy, presidential and cabinet travel, corruption, declaration of asserts and bloated cabinet and executive arrogances, the petition also included issues of salary hike and employment of permanent ministerial secretaries.

“The continued depreciation of the kwacha has eroded workers’ incomes and we are demanding a corresponding level of salary adjustment to cushion them from high cost of living. When the kwacha was devalued by 49 percent, most workers were given an average of 25 percent. We are therefore, demanding a comprehensive fair review and adjustment of workers’ salaries to mitigate the continued depreciation of the Kwacha and high cost of living,” reads the petition in part.

In the petition, Kapito has given government 21 days unlike the previous 14 days to respond or face continuous protests until the raised concerns are addressed.

“These demands in the petition are grievances, frustrations from consumers throughout the country. We are expecting that our demands will be responded to within 21 days from the delivery of this petition,” said Kapito.

On the need to have permanent secretaries, the petition argued that the presence of more than one secretary in government ministries is draining taxpayers’ especially at the time when the country is under serious economic challenges.

“Such duplication of secretaries does not add value. We demand that each ministry should only have one permanent secretary. We strongly believe that one permanent secretary supported by strong technical directorates can serve a ministry much better and at a reduced cost”.

Despite the pulling out of Blantyre organizing committee’s spokesperson, Kingsley Mabalani and Chairperson Mc Xitings Mdoka the demonstrations took place peacefully, contradicting perceptions that their pull out will affect the whole thing.

Kapito reading the petition…Photo Jeromy Kadewere

The protestors

Jessie Kabwira Kapasula was also in attendance…Photo Jeromy Kadewere

Empty streets in Limbe…Photo Jeromy Kadewere

Black Moses was in attendance…Photo Jeromy Kadewere

Malawi government has hailed peaceful demonstrations by consumers on Thursday against economic hardships and other concerns against Joyce Banda government, saying it is the starting point for dialogue.

Many Malawians are feeling the pinch from economic reforms that have been instituted by President Joyce Banda.

The reforms, which are backed by the IMF, have “led to the suffering of poor Malawians,” Consumer Association of Malawi (Cama0 boss John Kapito who championed the demonstrations, claimed.

Speaking to Nyasa Times Information Minister Moses Kunkuyu who is also Malawi government spokesperson said he is delighted to see that Malawians expressed their frustrations in a peaceful manner.

The District commissioner and Blantyre City Council chief executive waiting for the petition…Photo Jeromy Kadewere

He attributed the peaceful demonstration to the “combination of good citizenship and good government”

Said Kunkuyu:  “Previously we had ugly scenes because the previous regime used force to block peaceful protesters from exercising their democratic right. While the administration of Mrs. Joyce Banda understands values of democracy that’s why we said from the word go that no single person will be stopped from taking to streets and we have lived to our word.”

“As government we’re happy with the conduct of organizers of the demonstrations they must be commended for being mature as they were able to control the protesters. Surely I can gladly say that they pursued their cause using legitimate means,” said Kunkuyu.

However, Kunkuyu said today’s demonstrations should not be the last day for Malawians to engage government in matters that concern them.

According to the minister, concerns raised in the petition will be addressed.

“Frankly speaking, I cannot say whether we will be able to address all the concerns or not. What is important is for both sides to sit down and find better ways of addressing these problems we shouldn’t work in isolation.

“All along we have been calling for dialogue and now that the petition has been presented I hope it’s the best opportune time to start talks in a bid to address the issues raised because they are legitimate.”

Unlike July 20, 2011 episode when similar economic protests descended into nationwide rioting and looting that left 19 people dead. However, on January 17 there was no report of violence, death or injury as a result of demonstrations. One was arrested in Zomba for holding protests without informing the police.

“I think today Malawians have experienced the rebirth of our democracy,” said Kunkuyu.

The minister further saluted the media for covering the demonstrations professionally although there were threats from the communications regulatory board Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) barring radio stations from carrying out live updates.

The congregation on their way to present the petition….Photo Jeromy Kadewere

Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki on Thursday wrapped up his two-day tour of duty in Malawi with a landmark inauguration of a multinational road project in the capital Lilongwe.

Since his arrival on Wednesday, President Kibaki undertook a number of tasks including holding a bilateral talk with his Malawian counterpart Joyce Banda.

And on Thursday, just few hours before he flew out to Kenya, the visiting president laid a foundation stone for the Lilongwe West By-pass road project which is being funded by the African Development Bank (ADB).

The by-pass road is part of the multinational Nacara Road Corridor Project that will benefit Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia.

Part of the ground breaking activities of the Lilongwe West by-pass road. President Mwai Kibaki of Kenya and President Banda

The by-pass will connect the country’s main road (M1) on the Blantyre-Lilongwe road and the Lilongwe-Mchinji road.

Speaking after laying the foundation stone, the Kenyan leader observed that President Banda’s decision to invest in road infrastructure will go a long way in transforming the country’s economy.

He urged the government to continue placing infrastructure development because it is a strategic aspect in trade reforms for any country.

“Infrastructure upgrade and expansion are the center of business reforms. This is because infrastructure acts as a key enabler of socio-economic development in any country,” said Kibaki.

The Kenyan president observed that the construction of the road will not only divert transit traffic from the city centre but also significantly reduce travel times and increase movements within it.

“This road will also improve the country’s competitiveness in export market as it is destined to contribute to the reduction of the overall costs of doing business,” noted the 81-year-old leader who will be leaving office in two months time after serving for 10 years.

Turning to Malawian traders, Kibaki encouraged them to take advantage of the new road network to explore extra business ventures within and beyond its immediate environs.

“In addition to the advantages, the by-pass will also benefit other neighbouring countries such as Zambia thus promoting intra Africa trade integration.

“This is in line with the objectives of the COMESA [Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa] master plan for infrastructure development where member countries have committed themselves to developing closer partnerships in implementation of economic corridors which will eventually reduce the cost of cross border trade,” he explained.

Kibaki said it was his expectation that the increased inter state trade within the COMESA bloc would create employment and contribute to poverty reduction.

In her speech, President Banda said the road, to be constructed by SADC regional network standards, would lead to improved mobility, generate more development in the area as well as create employment among many Malawians.

“Today’s function goes a long way in the realization of the development priorities my government set in 2012 when I took over.

“The construction of this new road is one of the excellent examples of my government’s commitment to improving the socio economic well being of Malawians by providing improved mobility, access and connectivity for our nation’s socio economic development,” President Banda said.

She said the by-pass will enable traffic going to Zambia and Mozambique pass through Lilongwe without disturbing local traffic while the domestic traffic going to the north and south of Malawi will also ably pass through the city with minimal delays.

Banda, however, urged those residing along the corridor to cooperate with the contractors to ensure that work is completed in time.

“No one should develop or cultivate in the road reserve… Compensation was paid for a road corridor of six to 10 meters implying that all land within this corridor has been reserved for future expansion,” she warned.

President Banda then pledged that her government would ensure implementation of the project does not suffer serious challenges that would negatively affect its progress.

While in the country, the Kenyan president also laid wreath at the mausoleum of Malawi’s founding president Dr Hastings Kamuzu Banda, held a high-level discussion with the business community and also met Kenyans living in Malawi.

Part of the ground breaking activities of the Lilongwe West by-pass road. President Mwai Kibaki of Kenya and President Banda

Unveiling a plague on Thursday for the ground breaking ceremony of the Lilongwe West by-pass road

Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki and First Gentlemen Justice Richard Banda Rtd toasting their glasses wishing good for the two nations

Exchanging gifts, President Kibaki presents a portrait of a Kenyan woman to woman President Banda as one of the gifts the two Presidents shared

President Mwai Kibaki of Kenya lays a wreath on Kamuzu Banda’s Tomb in Lilongwe – pic by Lisa Vintulla

Khumbize Kandodo one of Kamuzu Banda’s nieces shakes hands with Kibaki after laying a wreath on Kamuzu Banda’s resting place

Mwai Kibaki, president of Kenya signs in the visitors’ book at Kamuzu Mausoleum – pic by Lisa Vintulla

Malawi President Joyce Banda and her counterpart, Kenya’s Mwai Kibaki have agreed to further cement bilateral relation of the two nations by reopening embassies that were closed for seven years.

In a communiqué read by Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Patrick Kabambe during a news conference held at Kamuzu International Airport, Lilongwe Thursday upon departure of the Kenya’s president; the two leaders expressed appreciations of the excellent ties of friendship and cooperation that exist between the two countries.

The two Presidents reaffirmed their willingness to further deepen the relation by opening embassies in Nairobi, Kenya and Lilongwe, Malawi.

“Their excellencies Heads of State and government held fruitful private bilateral talks aimed at further cementing the relations between the two governments as well as discussions on many issues of regional and international nature,” read part of the communiqué among other aspects of social economic development and trade ties.

Leader of Oposition in Parliament John Z.U. Tembo greets President Mwai Kibaki at the rally for the ground ground breaking ceremony of the Lilongwe West by pass road. pic by Felix Washon, Mana.

Kabambe said  Banda informed  Kibaki that “her government is in process of reopening its high commission in Nairobi. On his part, His Excellency, Kibaki directed that a resident diplomatic mission also be opened in Lilongwe as a matter of priority.”

During the visit, the two leaders also agreed to come up with a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) between the Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Business Membership Organization as a way of strengthening trade between the two nations.

In addition to this, the two presidents reaffirmed their commitment to working together in promoting peace and security on the continent for sustainable development of Africa.

Kibaki lauded Malawi for its commitment to finding lasting solutions to regional security challenges and in particularly its contribution of troops to the United Nations (UN) peace keeping in Ivory Coast.

President Mwai Kibaki arrived in the country on Wednesday after being invited by the Malawi leader, Joyce Banda. While in the country, Kibaki laid wreaths at Kamuzu Mausoleum and commissioned the construction of the 13-km Lilongwe West by-pass road.

He has since left Malawi for Kenya.

President Mwai Kibaki of Kenya speaking after the ground breaking ceremony for the Lilongwe by pass road. pic by Felix Washon. mana.

President Mwai Kibaki bids farewell to ministers at KIA, in the picture he shakes hands with Minister of Gender Annita Kalinde, pic by Felix Washon, Mana.

Fare thee well: President Joyce Banda waves at President Mwai Kibaki as the plane takes off at Kamuzu International Airport, pic by Felix Washon, Mana.

Media Council of Malawi (MCM) hopes the training it organised for journalists in the country will help journalists to be free to get tested for HIV and disclose their status and pass on the message as well to all Malawians.

Acting Executive Director of MCM Vales Machira spoke this during the opening of a two day workshop on HIV/AIDS and Human Rights in Lilongwe.

“It is my hope that fear to go for HIV testing, feeling shy to disclose one’s status will all be a thing of the past after this workshop. I also hope that human rights issues that are directly linked with HIV/AIDS will also be promoted after this workshop” said Machira.

A sign promoting HIV testing

Facilitator of the workshop who is also National Coordinator for the Network of Journalists Living with HIV and AIDS David Kamkwamba said there is need to know human rights issues as they relate to HIV/AIDS in Malawi for proper media coverage.

“Journalist needs to know and increase their knowledge base on human rights issues that are directly linked to HIV and AIDS both locally and globally. This will also create free interaction among reporters,” said Kamkwamba.

One of the participating journalists at the workshop Chimwemwe Manda of Transworld Radio (TWR) said she is happy citing that she will now know how to report human rights and HIV/AIDS related issues.

“I am happy because I will be able to report the two as they relate, unlike in the past when I could report without knowing how to link the two,’ she said.

The workshop was attended by journalists drawn from different media houses across the central region.

National Aids Commission (NAC) funded the workshop. A similar workshop took place in the northern region and another one will also take place in the southern region.

Opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has saluted government for its unshaken determination to hold tripartite elections in 2014.

DPP Regional Governor for the North, Nick Aladini Masebo made the commendation Wednesday during a public hearing on wards demarcation organized by Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) at Chitipa Boma.

MEC held a public hearing to give platform to election stakeholders in the district to give their feedback on the new wards demarcated in 2010.  The long awaited meeting gave the stakeholders a rare opportunity to critically screen the wards and  make  corrections  on the names of the wards and centres.

Masebo, who is also Member of Parliament for Chitipa North, said government deserves commendation for making a bold decision to run the  presidential, parliamentary and local government elections simultaneously in 2014, despite sailing through economic hardships.

Masebo: Good to have three-tier polls

He said government has demonstrated its  appreciation  that the difficult time the nation is navigating through, which needs much of its attention, cannot surpass the requirement to have the tripartite elections that would usher in the long awaited ward councilors.

“The government has the prerogative to weigh the options. In this regard,   it could have shelved the elections [local government] to unknown date and cite  economic hardships haunting  the nation as the reason,” he said.

Masebo, who has just been promoted to lead the DPP Regional high office, following the defection of former regional governor, Revered Christopher Mzomera Ngwira  to ruling People’s Party, (PP) added that  the consensus reached by the government to hold tripartite elections smacks of   great importance it attaches to democratic values  and good governance.

“As DPP, we commend government for heeding  calls from patriotic Malawians who have been pressing for local government elections to have councilors who are key in enhancement of development in the communities,” he said.

The Parliamentarian, however, observed that holding three elections at   once was not an easy task. He said the process  requires  a lot of resources and special commitment  to ensure credible elections.

He then  warned government against compromising the electoral process by among other things,  providing  meager funding so that some crucial  activities lined up in the process in the run up to elections suffer.

The guest of  honour at the function, Commissioner Reverend Allan Chiphiko said it was the wish of his commission to ensure that the 2014 tripartite elections are not only free and fair but also highly credible.

“ As a commission, we are determined and well geared to do our best so that the 2014 tripartite elections are the best ever and  serve as a model to other countries,” he said.

Chitipa District has five constituencies and ten wards spread across  its five traditional authorities.

Former Minister of Finance, Friday Jumbe newly formed New Labour Party (NLP) – A  splinter group of Malawi’s former ruling United Democratic Front (UDF) of former president Bakili Muluzi - has been registered by the Registrar of Political Parties with former Speaker of Parliament, Sam Mpasu named interim vice-president.

The party which opted for Red as its colour and a burning torch (muuni) as symbol has since shifted its launch slated this January to next month. Its slogan is ‘Party of the People’.

LP was registered on January 9, 2013 making it a 46th political party in the country, largely dominated by about six main active parties.

In an interview with Nyasa Times, Jumbe said Mpasu has been made interim vice-president while doubling as the party’s publicity secretary with himself as interim president.

Jumbe: Red hot leader of Labour Party

“We have not yet formed an interim executive committee, but as of now, I am the interim president with Mr. Mpasu as vice. The full executive will be announced during the launch next month possibly here in Blantyre,” said Jumbe.

Some of the notable faces in the party include Ziliro Chibambo, former Member of Parliament Nicholas Kachingwe, Henry Nkulichi and Joseph Kubwalo.

He said the formation of Labour Party (LP) will bring total transformation economically, socially and politically once they get into power.

“Our slogan is in line with our core values to serve everyone. Labour Party focuses on labour rights. We would like to ensure better wages and working conditions for workers. We also focus on redistribution of wealth and land redistribution as well as citizen empowerment”.

He added that the party is currently setting up grassroots structures with some already set up in some districts in southern and central regions and will move to northern region soon.

“In the south we have committees in Thyolo, Mulanje, Chiradzulu, Chikhwawa, Zomba and Blantyre. In central region we are in Lilongwe, Dowa and Kasungu currently working on Ntchisi and Khotakota. We will move to northern region just soon before the launch. The response has been overwhelming, a sign that people have welcomed the Labour Party as their party”.

Jumbe rejected suggestions that he has formed the new party out of frustration as the UDF organised a convention which he boycotted and the 34-year-old Atupele Muluzi was elected National Chairman and automatic presidential candidate for the UDF in the 2014 elections.

Football Association of Malawi (FAM) have finally released an official summary of the teams and individuals who won various awards in the 2012-13 edition of K20 million (about $67 000) Carlsberg Cup.

Both the sponsors Carlsberg Malawi and organisers of the tournament FAM have said the competition which was won by Blue Eagles after beating Escom United 1-0 courtesy of a Ben Hojani was “the best.”

The awards were supposed to be splashed to teams and individual before Christmas holiday according to the sponsors Carlsberg Malawi Limited in its earlier announcement last month.

Ben Hojani scorer of the goal which handed Eagles championship.-Photo credit; Elijah phimbi/Nyasa Times

Team awards

Blue Eagles FC received a dummy cheque of K7 million (about $24 000) ultimate prize for emerging champions while runners up Escom United also received a dummy cheque of K3  million at a symbolic presentation which took place at Crossroads Hotel after the final game.

Epac FC, Azam Tigers, Super Eagles and Red Lions received K250, 000.00 for finishing in the quarterfinals while Envirom and Kabwafu received K500, 000.00 each as semifinalists.

Media awards

In the print media category, Joy Ndovi of Times Group emerged the best and received K100, 000.00.

Peter Forte of the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) has been chosen the best electronic reporter/presenter.

Golden boot

Wongani Zulu of Envirom FC won the golden boot award.

The top goal scorer award attracts prize money of K100, 000.00.

Apart from the awards mentioned above, man of the match in each game starting from the quarterfinal stage received a cash prize of K10, 000.00.

Carlsberg models-Photo credit; Elijah phimbi/Nyasa Times

During the finals, Charles Ngosi [in POP] celebrating with his Eagles coach Msakakuona-Photo credit; Elijah phimbi/Nyasa Times

The Lilongwe magistrate’s court has convicted  Police Prosecutor Charles Kabanga  and handed  him a suspended sentence for corruption.

The court heard that Kabanga  had solicited K4, 000 from a suspect Madalitso Kabango in order to discontinue an assault case.

“On 9th February, 2010 the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) received a complaint alleging that Charles Kabanga a police prosecutor at Kawale Police solicited K4, 000 but received K3, 000 in order for him to discontinue prosecuting an assault case against Madalitso Kabango,” said Egrita Ndala, Senior Public relations officer for ACB.

Consequently, the ACB instituted investigations which confirmed of the allegation and took Sergeant Kabanga to Lilongwe Magistrate’s Court.

The courts charged the suspect with two counts of corrupt practices by public officer contrary to Section 24(1) of the Corrupt Practices Act and one count of misuse of public office contrary to Section 25B (1) of the Corrupt Practices Act.

On 11th January, 2013, Lilongwe Magistrate’s Court found Kabanga guilty on all the three counts and convicted him.

Subsequently, on 14th January, 2013, the Court passed its judgment and sentenced Kabanga to four, six and three months imprisonment with hard labor on each of the three counts respectively but suspended each of them to three months.

Malawi’s renowned rights activist has saluted President Joyce Banda’s administration for not foiling the January 17 consumers’ anti-government protests, a development that resulted in a violence-free action.

Malawians on Thursday peaceably protested against immeasurable economic hardships that are characterized by soaring costs of living and other matters within the current administration.

Championed by the Consumers Association of Malawi (CAMA), the protestors, many of them wearing black, chanted anti-government songs as they lazily trooped to present petitions to President Banda through her representatives in all the country’ three regions.

But Emmie Chanika, Executive Director of the Civil Liberties Committee (CILIC), has commended the Head of State for not foiling the demos, which would have ended up in bloodshed.

Emmie Chanika: It is refreshning that peaceful demonstration against government had been held without bloodshed

Chanika further lauded the demos’ architect, John Kapito (CAMA executive director) for running the most peaceful demos, which she described as second best to the 3rd term bid of f ormer President Bakili Muluzi in 2004 which were also bloodless.

The vocal women rights campaigner also paid tribute to Malawians saying they were now understanding the tenets of demonstrations.

“People of Malawi have realized that demos are not to be turned into looting and destroying this fragile economy, and so they need a pat on the back too,” said Chanika.

She added: “And to Mr Kapito again for understanding security matters and humbly accepting change of the route because it’s not easy to do that as it dampens the mood of the march. For security to have behaved itself and not drive around like strutting cocks baying for blood, they need a smile from the whole nation.

“Time has changed indeed, from the time Bingu [former state president] would tell us he can disorganize us by organizing mayhem for a planned march, in our face too. Maybe Madame [Joyce Banda] can also add to her points by accepting to see people like Kapito and the likes of us, deemed crazy and confused by opportunist politicians.

“To Mrs Banda again, it shows a woman can hold her cool than the men we have had who were confronting and used threats.”

Chanika, however, only hoped that President Banda continues to be reasonable, democratic, hold her cool and remain sane and “also increase doing the right things to see her through 2014.”

On a lighter note, Chanika advised Banda not to always listen to politicians, particularly the recycled ones[ and ‘village idiots’], to avoid being misled.

University of Malawi Political Scientist, Mustafa Hussein, also applauded government for not standing on the way of demonstrators.

He however said the protests should serve as a wakeup call to the Banda administration.

“It is very unfortunate that the demonstrations are happening while the president hasn’t even finished a year in office. I think that shows that things are not good and government must do something to fix the country’s ailing economy,” he said.

Kapito said the peaceful demonstrations defeated what he called the “devil” the state machinery was trying to promote.

“The state has been using the so called Kunkuyu [Minister of Information] to preach about killings when we were talking about peace. They advocated for deadly scenes while we choose to put Jesus Christ in the front,” said Kapito.

In the seven-point petition, the protestors gave government a three-week ultimatum to respond to the issues or else they would be back on the roads “but in a different way.”

Among others, the consumers are demanding government to stop floatation of the kwacha, reduction of presidential and Cabinet travel, declaration of assets by the President, salary adjustments for workers in Malawi, Cabinet reduction, among others.

The Balaka Second Grade Magistrate Court has sentenced a 59-year-old man to seven years imprisonment with hard labour for chopping off his wife fingers in jealousy row.

The woman will have to live with permanent disfigurement.

The suspect William Duwa who resides at Mangerengere location in Balaka Township chopped off his wife two fingers on 6th January, 2013 after accusing her of having a secret love affair.

The incident happened when Duwa left home for a drinking spree and upon arrival home he started accusing his wife Chrissy Kunkeyani 49, of having a secret love affair then started beating her and later chopped off her two fingers with a Panga knife and escaped leaving her in a pool of blood.

Jealousy husband chops wife fingers

After the incident the suspect had been in hiding until last week end when Police arrested him following a tip off from the public.

Balaka police spokesperson Joseph Sauka told Nyasa Times that the suspect pleaded guilty to the offence.

“In mitigation, he asked the court to forgive him saying he has a family and five children to look after but police prosecutor Constable Christopher Nyirongo quashed aside his mitigating factor saying cases of gender based violence are becoming rampant in the district and the whole country and the disfigurement caused to the victim is permanent hence the need to give him a stiffer sentence.”

Passing judgement on Thursday, Sauka says, Second Grade Magistrate Maxwell Boaz agreed with Nyirongo that cases of gender based violence are becoming rampant in the country hence the need to give offenders stiffer sentences.

“He said men should learn to love and respect their wives not to torture them and asked members of the general public public to join hands in the fight against gender based violence by reporting perpetrators to police,” said Sauka.

William Duwa comes from Chauluka village, Traditional Authority Nsamala in Balaka district while the victim Chrissy Kunkeyani comes from Kambuku village, Traditional Authority Kwataine in Ntcheu district.

In another development,Police were  hunting for a man who allegedly chopped off his wife’s arm and leg following a family dispute. The woman was pronounced dead on arrival at the Dowa District Hospital  following loss of blood.

Mponela Police spokesperson Kondwani Kandiado  identified the suspect as 47-year-old Henry Agabu Vunga of Mwamcheka Village, Traditional Authority (T/A) Dzoole in Dowa while the woman has been identified as Tikhala Benson of Mbiya Village.

The attack is reminiscent of an incident in 2006 in the same Dowa district, when an irate husband, Herbert Mankhwala, cut off both arms of his wife, Marietta Samuel. However, the wife survived the attack. The husband went to jail.

Malawi’s Flames are expected to launch a new lease of life without their mentor Kinnah Phiri with a possible friendly against Zimbabwe’s Warriors in three weeks time.

Football Association of Malawi (FAM) President Walter Nyamilandu confirmed having received a request from the Zimbabweans for an international friendly in Harare on February 6.

“They have indeed sent a request to host us for a friendly match on the 6th of February in Harare. We have taken up the matter with our sponsor, the ministry of sports, for feedback and approval so we are still waiting to hear from them,” Nyamilandu told Nyasa Times in an interview on Friday.

He said as FAM they were keen to make use of the February 6 which is a FIFA international friendly matches’ day to play the Zimbabwe Warriors but could not determine anything “as the matter is being handled at that higher level.”

Nyamilandu: Friendly for Flames

Just like the Flames, the Warriors are also faced with a difficult task of assembling a competitive and winning outfit before resuming their faltering 2014 Brazil World Cup campaign with a tough assignment away to the Pharaohs of Egypt in March.

The coach-less Flames will travel to Windhoek to clash Namibia’s Brave Warriors in the Brazil World Cup African Zone qualifiers in March.

The new Warriors’ German Coach Klaus Dieter Pagels and his technical team are keen to use the match as a first step in rebuilding the team’s brand from the ashes of their failed 2013 African Cup of Nations campaign and the famous Asiagate scandal which resulted in Zimbabwe Football Association dissolving the entire national team last year.

The Warriors got off to a false start in the 2014 Brazil World Cup campaign under Rahman Gumbo, the former Malawi’s Mighty Wanderers’ coach, after losing 1-0 to Guinea at home and then featuring in a goalless draw against Mozambique in Maputo.

The Flames, who continue tumbling on Coca Cola FIFA rankings with the latest statistics positioning them on number 114 from 111, will be looking forward to start a fresh page after FAM last week fired Coach Kinnah Phiri who has led the team since 2008.

FAM is yet to replace the once revered coach who took the Flames to Angola 2010 Africa Cup of Nations for the first time in 26 years and nearly repeated the feat last year in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea when the team missed the ship with just seconds.

Hon  Speaker, Sir,  on  behalf  of  the  delegation   I  wish  to  express  our  appreciation  for  allowing  us  to  come  and  see  you  today  despite  your  busy  schedule.  We  are  also  gratified  to  be  here  in  this  magnificent  building  where  honourable  people  deliberate  national  issues.  We    thank  you  for  the hospitality  surrounding  our  meeting  today.

The  objective  of  this  appointment  with  you, Hon. Speaker,   is to learn  from  you  what  have  been  the  key  impediments  to  the  implementation  of   S65  during  your  administration. Secondly, PAC  wishes  to  advocate  for  the  passing  into  law of the  electoral  amendments  that  are  being  harmonised  by  the  Malawi   Electoral  Commission  to  enable  the  holding  of  Tripartite  Elections. Of  course  there  are  other  issues  we  wish  to  raise  with  you  so  that  you  are  aware  what  delegates  said  during  the  Second  All-Inclusive  Stakeholders  Conference  held  on 30-31  October, 2012.  But  before  we  detail  these  issues  allow  us  to  briefly  outline  PAC’s  strategic  goals.

His Grace Bishop Sitima led the PAC delegation

PAC as a civil society organization needs no introduction to you, Sir , since it has evolved together with the political processes in the new multiparty dispensation.  The organization has maintained its original objectives which are among other things:

1. To encourage religious bodies to fulfill their prophetic and religious roles, and respond to the socio-economic and political affairs of the Republic of Malawi
2. To promote peace and tranquility in the Republic of Malawi;
3. To promote the rule of law and human rights in the Republic of Malawi
4. To  enter into and maintain a dialogue with any person, political body or any other institution in the Republic of Malawi regarding any issues of concern to the nation;

It  is  the  latter  that  brings  us  here  today   to  share  issues  of  concern  that  emerged  from  the  All-Inclusive  Stakeholders  Conferences  held  in  March  and   October  2012.  These conferences drew delegates from different sectors and  political  parties. Before  I  go  into  some  observations  and  resolutions,  allow   me   to  take  you  through  the  advocacy  processes  we  have  gone  through  since  March, 2012.

You  may  be  aware  of the  fact  that  Malawi  faced  serious  challenges  both  economically  and  politically  since  2010.  Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) organized mass demonstrations that  led  to  the  death  of  20 people  which  resulted  to   national  dialogue  between  CSOs  and  Government. As  PAC  we  noted  that   things  were  not  improving  till  early  2012. We  resolved  to  organize   an  All-Inclusive  Conference  at  Limbe  Cathedral  to  define  a  common  strategy  and  agenda on  the  political  and  economic  direction  of  the  country.  Many  observations  were  made  from the  conference.  The  most  important   of  all  were  resolution  to  concretize  the  way  forward.  The  following  were  the  resolutions  made  by  PAC  Board  :

1. To establish   a    Special  Committee  on  Political , Economic  and  Constitutional  Reforms (  members  would   include  some  delegates   who  attended  the  conference)
2. To establish  a   Committee  on    Constructive Engagement  with  the  Head  of  State (  members  would  include  some  delegates  who  attended   the conference)
3. To organize  a  follow-up  Conference   to   continue  enhancing  broad-  based  dialogue  among  stakeholders
4. To  refine  a  PAC  multi-year  strategy  document   to  focus on  activities  leading  to  2014

The   meeting  with  Her  Excellency  Joyce  Banda  on  14 November, 2012 therefore   marked   the   implementation   of   Resolution  No. 2  above, that  is  , to  constructively  engage  with  the  Head  of  State.  Resolution  No. 3   was  implemented  through  the  holding  of  Second  All-Inclusive Conference  in  October 2012. Within  Resolution  3 , PAC  resolved  to  engage  with  key decision-makers . This  meeting  therefore constitutes  one  of  the  interface  meetings PAC  is  holding. So  far  this  is  the  path  we  have  taken  in  our  advocacy  journey  to  learn  more  on  various  issues . Therefore, in summary, we  have  had  two  major  conferences, one  interface  meeting  with  the  Head  of  State  , now this  meeting ,   to  identify  issues  for  our  advocacy  interventions.

It  is  in  light  of  this,  Honourable  Speaker  ,  that  we  come  here  today  to  share with  you  some  of  the  concerns    Malawians  talked  about   regarding  the  economic  and  political  landscape last  year. We  are aware  that  there  are areas  that  may  have  improved  politically. However ,  Malawians  still  have  concerns  in  the   areas  of  political  governance,  constitutionalism  and  economic  path  under  the  current  administration.  We  therefore  come  here  today   to  outline  selected  issues  of  concern  which  were  also  shared  with Her  Excellency  Joyce  Banda. We  do  this  because  you  may  not  have  shared  notes  on  some  of  these  aspects. But   as  Speaker  of  the  National  Assembly  its  important  to  read  some  of  the  issues  to  you  as  we  did  with  the  Head  of  State:

Political Governance

On  political  governance,  our  last  conference  observed  that  there  is  lack  of   leadership  at  various  levels   to  transform  this  country,  and  therefore ,  Malawi  continues  to  face  underdevelopment  since  its  independence. We  are  not  only  talking  about  political  leadership  but  leadership  at  different  levels of  administration to  transform  our  country. Similarly, we  are  not  talking  about  any  individual  but  a  concept  on  leadership.  To this end,  it  was  recommended  that  Malawi must produce transformational leadership as a prelude to achieving development in all sectors. There is need to institutionalize leadership training in and through academic institutions, civil society organizations, faith based institutions etc for  Malawi  to  be  transformed.  This  seemed  to  have  been  a  key  issue  during    our  conference. We  are  aware  that  it  is  not   your  personal  responsibility alone  but  it    involves  many  players .  We  are  of  the  view  that  generally  Malawi  continue to  lack  strategic  leadership.  People  may  argue  with  us on  this  point but  the  fact  remains  that  we  are  not  sure  whether  our  country  will  see  the  type  of  development  our  friends  in  other  countries  are  experiencing. During  our  conferences  it  was  clear  that  Malawi  lacks  serious  leadership  in  order  to  stir  development.

Constitutionalism: Section  65  

As  regards  constitutionalism,    S65  was  highly  prioritized  by  the  delegates. In  this  regard, delegates noted that there has been a serious lack of political will to invoke section 65 in the eighteen years of the multi-party dispensation of political governance. This  is  unwelcome  development.  It  is  generally  felt that  within  the  current  administration  failure  to  implement  S65  has  been a  deliberate  disregard  of  constitutionalism  despite    technical   excuses  that  have  been  given  at  parliament.

Section  64  of  the  Constitution

Related  to  S65   is   the  issue  of   S64 . It was observed that the repealing of Section 64 of the Constitution in 1995 has caused a constitutional gap in the accountability mechanisms to check the effectiveness of the Members of Parliament. Delegates  felt  that  the  unilateral repeal  of  S64 was  an  unfortunate  disregard  of  the  will  of  the  people  of  Malawi and   a  fundamental  departure  from  principles  of  constitutionalism. This has  also  become  an  issue  to  be  reconsidered  to  enhance  transparency   and  accountability  in  Malawi.   We   feel  that  this  provision  be  re-introduced in  the  republican  Constitution. Honorable  Speaker, Sir, we  are  aware of  the  need  to  have  appropriate  safeguards, and  we are  confident  that  Malawi  can  develop  these  safeguards  .

Autonomy   of  Parliament

We  also  noted  that  the  need  to  concretize  the  autonomy  of  parliament  should be  treated  as  a  priority  for  effective  performance  of   the  parliament. For  instance,  the  parliament  should  be  in  control  of  its  own  budget  and  the  Speaker  should  be  summoning  the  parliament. It  is  our  view  that  the  current  scenario  subjects  the  parliament  too  much  to  the  Executive. We  hope  that  this  issue  will  be  treated  as a  priority.

Tripartite   Elections

The issue  of  tripartite  elections  was  also  deliberated  during  our  conference. We ,  as an  organization, support  the  need  to  hold  tripartite  elections  in  2014.  We  are  impressed  with  the  parliament  for  passing  the  bill  into  law  to enable  Malawi  hold  these  elections. We believe  these  elections  will give Malawians power to run their own affairs  and  will  enhance  participation  of  the  community  in  developmental  work.

Economic  Situation

On  economic  front, it  is  clear  that  there  is  hardship. We  know  that  devaluation  is  a  must  in  our  situation.  However, we  may  need  to  put  adequate  measures  to  lessen  the  hardship.  But  on  a  separate  note,  we  wish  to  emphasise  the  fact  that  devaluation  has  had  a  big  impact  on  people’s  lives. The  government  should  therefore  practice  austerity  measures  to  redirect  savings  towards  mitigating   the  impact  of  devaluation.

There  were  many  more  observations  but  we  selected  a few  of  them.  You  will  see  from  our  communiqué  how  stakeholders  view  some  issues  in  your  administration.

Hon. Speaker  Sir,  we  now  wish  to  focus  on  the  objective  of  this  meeting.

S65  implementation

You  will  recall  that  when  the  PP  government  was  sworn  in , many  MPs  shifted  to  government  side  dumping  their  own  political  parties. We are very much aware of  the  freedom  of  association. However, we  have  S65  of  the  Constitution  of  the  Republic  of  Malawi  and  yet  you  could  not  implement  it  at an  appropriate  time. As PAC ,  our  view  following  the  two  conferences  held  last  year  is  that  Malawians  expected  you  to  take  an  action. We would like  to  know  why  this  failed.

Tripartite   Elections

PAC  would  like  to  thank  Members  of  Parliament  for  passing  Tripartite  elections  Bill  during  the  last  sitting  of  parliament. They  did  a  wonderful  job  for the  benefit  of  Malawians. We  believe  that  honourable  people  should  always  be  honourable  enough  to  do  things  in  the  national  interests. In  this  regard , we  would  also  like  to  advocate  for  the  prioritization  of  passing  into  law  bills  which  aim  at  harmonizing the  constitution;  Presidential,Parliamentary  Elections  Act (PPEA)  and  Local  Government  Elections  Act (LGEA).   This  activity  is   being  pursued  by  the  Taskforce  on  the  Harmonisation  of  electoral  laws   in  which  PAC  is  involved. We  believe  all  the  amendments  that  have  been selected  should  be  passed  into  law  if  the  tripartite  elections  are  to  take  place.  The  amendments  are  the  main  pillars  for  holding  the  elections. We  take  cognizance  that  the  drafting  of  these  bills  has  not  been  finalized but  we  are  sure  that  they  will  be  brought  before  parliament  in  February, 2013.

Constitutional   Reforms

This  aspect  is  not  for   you  as  an  individual  but  we  would  like  to  raise  it   with  you  because  you  are  part  of  government  and  one  of  the  key  decision-makers. You  will  recall  that   in  2007  the Law Commission  produced  a  report  on  the  review  of  the  Constitution.  Up  to  now,  the  recommendations  have  not  been  effected. We  find  it  unfortunate  that  as a country  we  can  manage  to  ignore  such  a  report  after  spending  millions  of  Kwachas  on  consulting  Malawians.  We  feel  this  is  betrayal  to  constitutional  principles. It  is  our  view  that  government  should  reconsider the  recommendations  to  reflect  the  current  constitutional  challenges. We  will  continue  to  advocate for   the  implementation  of  the  constitutional  reforms   with  other  key  stakeholders because  the  said  report  is  very  important.

Once again , congratulations  for  passing  the  law  on  tripartite  elections. We hope that you will continue enacting  other  amendments  relating  to  tripartite  elections.

In  conclusion, we  seek  your  observations  on  the  above  issues  we  have  raised.

We   wish  you  God’s  blessings!

By  the  Grace  of  God  We  Shall  Succeed.

Former finance minister Friday Jumbe has decried the high-level corruption in the country, describing Malawi as a failed state.

Jumbe, who is heading New Labour Party sympathetic to governing People’s Party, noted on Friday that graft in Malawi is worsening.

“Malawi is a failed state because of corruption. Economy is in reverse. There is no proper order and corruption is rampant,” said Jumbe, adding “You can’t access government services without buying your way there. Corruption has been institutionalized.”

A concern over high levels of executive corruption is one of the issues that Consumer Association of Malawi (Cama) raised to mobilize consumers to hold peace demonstrations against government.

Jumbe: Rampant corruption

CAMA, headed by fierce government critic John Kapito, accused government of covering up corruption and called for an end to the culture of impunity.

The former Finance Minister said government needs to adopt a “zero-tolerance approach” to corruption .

Farm subsidy

Jumbe, who once headed the state grain marketer ADMARC, also criticized the Farm Input Subsidy Programme (Fisp) aimed at Malawi’s smallholder farmers, saying it has failed to benefit the impoverished because of graft.

“And we need to reverse the subsidy programme as it is riddled with corruption as well. It has failed because it has been politicized. There are few fat cats. It is a complete failure of policy,” Jumbe said.

Touching on political party coalitions ahead of 2014 three tier polls, Jumbe said NLP is ready to work with any political party whose agenda is to “bail out the country from enormous economic challenges and rampant corruption”.

Alcohol sachets

He also called for a total ban on alcohol sachets.

“Its high time government took a bold step to ban these sachets to protect our children from alcohol abuse. Interestingly, the distillers, mostly Asians, don’t allow their children to consumer such highly potent beer.

“We have given them (distillers) unwarranted leniency, there should be not sachets in the country for the betterment of Malawi,” Jumbe said.

Many Malawians have expressed concern over youth’s binge drinking especially strong liquor which is cheaper in sachets.

Further public outcry is caused by the fact that several people have died from consuming the alcohol in large quantities.