By Burnett Munthali
In a statement signed by its chairperson, Gift Trapence, the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has declared that the ongoing fuel crisis affecting Malawi is not only impacting citizens but also deepening the country’s economic woes, which were already in a critical state.
HRDC stated that the government’s inability to resolve the fuel crisis is a clear sign that it has failed Malawians and lacks the expertise required to manage the country’s affairs effectively.
According to HRDC, the fuel shortage has hit Malawi at a time when citizens are already facing numerous hardships, including rising prices of goods, unemployment, and widespread hunger. These challenges are compounding the difficulties faced by Malawians, making everyday life more burdensome.
The HRDC labeled the situation as shameful and an embarrassment to the government. “Malawians need a government that can lead them, not one that is clueless,” said Trapence.
In the statement, HRDC also called on the Minister of Energy, Ibrahim Matola, to step down if he cannot resolve the issues surrounding the fuel and electricity crises.
Furthermore, the coalition urged the government, led by President Lazarus Chakwera, to find solutions for Malawians, warning that HRDC will not tolerate a government that is directionless in addressing the nation’s problems.
