Yesterday, President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera made an emphatic declaration that he intends to extend his leadership mandate for another five years, culminating in 2030, due to what he views as his stellar performance over the past four years. Chakwera made these bold remarks during a highly energized political rally in Area 24, Lilongwe—the first since he was unanimously chosen to lead the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) in the upcoming elections.
In a forceful response to critics attempting to undermine his administration, the President asserted that honest, fair-minded Malawians recognize the tangible progress his government has made. Among the achievements he highlighted were the construction of what he called “durable, state-of-the-art roads” crisscrossing the nation, marking a legacy of infrastructural excellence under his leadership.
He further emphasized his revival of the once-defunct railway system and his overhaul of the National Economic Empowerment Fund, which, he claimed, is now benefiting “hundreds of thousands of Malawians.” He also underscored his commitment to grassroots development, increasing the Constituency Development Fund from K30 million to K200 million, ensuring that progress reaches even the most remote areas of Malawi.
Despite accusations that Malawi’s economy is under severe strain, Chakwera maintained that only sincere Malawians can appreciate his efforts in revitalizing the economy and distributing maize to communities impacted by last year’s dry spell.
The rally also served as a political turning point, as Chakwera welcomed a host of high-profile figures from opposition parties into the MCP fold, including former Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Secretary General Grezelder Jeffrey and others.
MCP Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda proudly declared that the MCP, unlike its rivals, is a champion for women’s leadership, appointing Catherine Gotani Hara and Abida Mia as the party’s first and second vice presidents, respectively. Banda confidently predicted that, despite efforts by the DPP to forge alliances with smaller parties, they would never regain power. As the 2025 elections draw near, and with the 50%+1 vote rule in effect, political commentators suggest that alliances will be crucial, but MCP remains resolute in its decision to contest the elections independently, aiming to retain power without the need for external support.
