By Burnett Munthali
The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has strongly criticized the Malawian government, declaring that the ongoing fuel crisis is a clear indication of its incompetence in addressing the basic needs of its citizens.
In a statement signed by HRDC chairperson Gift Trapence, the coalition has demanded immediate and decisive action from the authorities, emphasizing that the crisis is intolerable. The HRDC asserts that if the government cannot manage the situation, it should step aside and allow capable leadership to take over.
“The people of Malawi deserve leaders who can act, not officials who sit idle while the country burns. If the Government cannot resolve this crisis, it must step aside and make way for those who can,” reads the HRDC’s statement.
The organization made it clear that it will not remain silent while Malawians continue to suffer due to what it describes as inefficient and incompetent leadership. HRDC has issued a strong warning to those responsible for managing the fuel supply, calling for immediate solutions. Should they fail to ensure a steady supply of fuel, HRDC insists that they should resign from their positions.
Beyond the fuel shortage, HRDC has stressed that the crisis threatens the very survival of the nation and the future of its citizens. “This crisis is a national emergency, and the people of Malawi will no longer tolerate a Government that is out of touch, out of ideas, and out of time,” the statement further reads.
HRDC has also urged the government to reform its fuel procurement processes by eliminating the use of middlemen and implementing a transparent, efficient, and corruption-free system. The coalition accuses the government of unnecessarily complicating the process, to the detriment of Malawians.
“The Government knows exactly where to buy fuel and has the means to purchase it directly from suppliers. Yet, it continues to complicate the process by involving third parties who have no interest in the wellbeing of Malawians. This must stop now,” HRDC stated.
The coalition’s call for urgent action comes at a time when Malawians are facing rising prices, a shortage of basic goods, and a crippling economic crisis—all exacerbated by the ongoing fuel shortage.
