In recent political developments, Malawi's Leader of the Opposition, Simplex Chithyola Banda, has demanded the immediate suspension of all fuel levies following a sharp price hike, according to Nyasa Times. With diesel prices reaching $3.80 per litre, Chithyola warned that the cost of living is becoming unbearable for ordinary citizens and urged the government to lower pump prices to prevent a deeper economic crisis.
Meanwhile, a K4.15 billion budget allocation for the Office of Second Vice President Enoch Chihana has drawn heavy criticism from accountability advocates. Nyasa Times reports that K4 billion of the total is allocated for Other Recurrent Transactions, leaving only K150 million for personal emoluments. Willy Kambwandira of the Centre for Social Accountability and Transparency called the budget a waste of resources, arguing that the office lacks a clear mandate and measurable development outcomes.
In a push for financial accountability, Finance Minister Joseph Mwanamveka has directed the newly rebranded Malawi Enterprise Development Fund (MEDF) to collect K250 billion owed by previous borrowers. Speaking at the fund's relaunch, Mwanamveka emphasized that the loans are public funds and not gifts, according to Nyasa Times. MEDF Board Chairperson James Mathambo confirmed that the institution is prepared to take legal action and employ sheriffs to seize assets from defaulters.
Additionally, the government has signed a $23.5 million grant agreement with the African Development Bank to rehabilitate the Kapichira Hydropower Plant and Nkula B, Nyasa Times reports. The investment aims to repair infrastructure damaged by previous cyclones and supports Malawi's goal of expanding national electricity access.