By Burnett Munthali
Ben Phiri, a senior official of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has launched a scathing criticism of the current government, accusing officials of engaging in widespread corruption while many Malawians continue to suffer from hunger and poverty.
Speaking during a political rally on Thursday, Phiri expressed frustration with the government’s failure to address the country’s growing challenges, particularly the mismanagement of public resources and the worsening food insecurity that has left millions struggling to survive.
“This government is not what it claims to be. We are witnessing corruption on a scale that we have never seen before. Officials are no longer just stealing — they are stealing without shame, and it has reached an alarming level,” said Phiri.
He pointed out that while the government leaders enrich themselves, ordinary Malawians are facing the brunt of a deepening hunger crisis, which has seen many go without basic food necessities.
“Malawians are suffering. People are dying of hunger, yet those in power are busy helping themselves to the country’s wealth. This is not the government we were promised. Instead of delivering development and relief, they are looting the resources meant to help the people,” he added.
The former minister emphasized that the ongoing corruption within the government is worsening the economic and social conditions in Malawi. According to Phiri, the lack of accountability among top officials has created a sense of hopelessness among citizens, many of whom have lost faith in the leadership.
“People in rural areas are struggling to get by. There are no jobs, and the cost of living is rising every day. How can we expect people to survive when even their leaders are betraying them? This is no longer just about mismanagement; it is deliberate theft from the Malawian people,” Phiri declared.
Phiri also questioned the government’s commitment to addressing the food crisis, arguing that more should have been done to mitigate the hunger that is plaguing many parts of the country.
“Malawi is facing a serious hunger crisis, and yet we do not see any meaningful response from those in power. Where is the action? Where is the leadership? It seems the people have been abandoned by their own government,” Phiri stated.
His remarks come as criticism mounts against the current administration for its failure to tackle corruption and improve the economic situation. Many Malawians are calling for greater transparency and accountability from their leaders, as well as immediate measures to address the growing food insecurity.
With the country continuing to face these challenges, Phiri urged Malawians to remain vigilant and to hold the government accountable for its actions.
“We must demand better leadership. We cannot sit back and watch as our country is destroyed by corruption and greed. The time for change is now,” he concluded.
