Patience Has Limits: PAC Warns Chakwera as 2025 Polls Near In Malawi

By Prince Kurupati

In a pivotal meeting at Kamuzu Palace, Lilongwe, on January 13, 2025, Monsignor Dr. Patrick Thawale, Chairperson of the Public Affairs Committee (PAC) Executive Committee, addressed His Excellency Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, President of Malawi. The dialogue focused on issues of national importance, particularly corruption, economic challenges, governance gaps, and the path to the 2025 elections. Dr. Thawale’s remarks struck a balance between commendation and candid criticism, painting a complex picture of Malawi's current socio-political landscape.

PAC acknowledged notable achievements under President Chakwera's leadership, particularly in infrastructure development. “Lilongwe has been transformed…the quality of the road construction we witness today is amazing,” Dr. Thawale remarked. Such progress symbolizes a government capable of delivering tangible benefits to its citizens when resources are well-directed.

On the international stage, improved diplomatic relations under President Chakwera’s administration were also lauded. These strides were seen as efforts to position Malawi as a credible player in global affairs. “At international level, we have seen improved international relations between Malawi and other countries,” Dr, Thawale stated.

However, the address did not shy away from Malawi’s pressing issues, with corruption taking center stage. Despite campaign promises to eradicate corrupt practices, PAC expressed disappointment at what it termed “inaction and indecisiveness” in dealing with corruption within the government. “Words have not matched your actions,” Dr. Thawale stated, citing the failure to address allegations of abuse of funds in key areas such as fertilizer and fuel procurement.

The MCP manifesto’s pledge to be “very tough on corruption” was referenced as a benchmark against which the administration has fallen short. This perceived failure, PAC warned, has eroded public trust in the government and its ability to lead with integrity.
Economic challenges also featured prominently in the discussion.

PAC highlighted the disconnect between stagnant incomes and soaring prices of basic commodities, a scenario that has plunged many Malawians into hardship. While acknowledging global economic pressures, Dr. Thawale urged the administration to re-examine its fiscal policies and curtail public expenditure, particularly on international trips that have drawn widespread criticism.

The appointment of a new Reserve Bank Governor was welcomed as a step in the right direction. However, PAC stressed the need for broader reforms to stabilize the economy and uplift the standard of living. “The standard of living in Malawi is disastrous,” Dr. Thawale lamented.

The civil service, described as the “engine for service delivery,” was another area of concern. PAC criticized the administration for ignoring critical vacancies and failing to address inefficiencies within the civil service. The dysfunctionality of the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) was singled out as a significant impediment to effective governance. “Your Excellency, kindly reconfigure the higher echelons of administration,” Dr. Thawale urged.

As Malawi approaches the 2025 elections, PAC emphasized the importance of fostering good governance and ensuring an inclusive electoral process. Allegations of political oppression, including the stifling of opposition demonstrations, were flagged as potential threats to democracy.

PAC cautioned against actions that could undermine the legitimacy of the electoral process, urging the government to prioritize transparency and fairness.

Dr. Thawale also called for restraint in arresting opposition figures, stressing that such actions should not appear politically motivated. “Caution has to be exercised so that certain acts do not reflect badly on Your Excellency,” he said.

In closing, Dr. Thawale painted a stark picture of the administration’s current standing: “The general political atmosphere puts your political party on the exit stage unless something spectacular emerges.” The address underscored the urgency for the government to act decisively on corruption, economic recovery, and governance reforms to restore public confidence and steer Malawi toward a brighter future.

The remarks delivered by Dr. Thawale encapsulated the hopes and frustrations of a nation at a crossroads, calling on its leaders to rise to the occasion before patience runs out. As he aptly concluded, “Patience has limits.”