As President Chakwera administration is committed to being a responsive and listening government, this democratic trait was reaffirmed by the Minister of Trade, Hon. Willard Gwengwe, during a meeting with vendors from Tsoka Market who presented their petition at Parliament Building in the morning.
Minister Gwengwe emphasized that the government is fully aware of the challenges faced by the vendors and is taking decisive action in response. To address concerns about the senseless and unjustifiable price hikes of second-hand clothing bales, the government has since revoked the licenses of traders of foreign origin, including those from Indian and Chinese communities, who have been involved in the importation of second-hand clothes.
The government sensed the foul stench of sabotage in the air. This measure aims to protect both vendors and consumers from exploitative practices. The revocation of these licenses means that these traders are no longer authorized to conduct business in the country until new, fair arrangements are established with the government.
This intervention is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the livelihoods of Malawian vendors and ensure that consumers are not burdened by the senseless and unreasonable price increases.
Vendors have since expressed their satisfaction, noting that the Chakwera government remains true to its promise of listening to and addressing the concerns of the people, in contrast to the previous administration.
They were heard saying, “Dr. Chakwera is the leader this country needs for the next five years. His leadership is marked by a genuine willingness to listen, an honesty in acknowledging the challenges we face, and a steadfast commitment to repairing the deep damage left by the previous DPP regime.”
This is what we mean when we say: “Boma ndi Lomweli.”
