By Burnett Munthali

Parliament has adjourned its session despite fierce opposition from some Members of Parliament (MPs) who criticized the decision, citing an unanswered question directed at President Lazarus Chakwera. The question, posed by Machinga East MP Esther Jolobala, touched on the sensitive issue of hunger, which is affecting many Malawians.

Jolobala sought clarity on the government’s commitment to addressing food insecurity, noting that some citizens have been forced to resort to eating chitedze (raw okra seeds) as a survival strategy. This dire reality, she argued, is a far cry from the campaign promise of ensuring three meals a day for every Malawian. Jolobala asked whether this promise remains a priority for the administration or if it was mere political rhetoric designed to win votes.

In response, Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara clarified that the session could not be extended to accommodate the question, as it was a business day with a packed agenda. Her decision to adjourn was met with resistance from opposition MPs, who argued that the President should address pressing national issues like hunger before the House rises.

Opposition lawmakers expressed frustration over what they described as the government’s reluctance to tackle critical issues. “Hunger is not just a political question; it’s a matter of life and death for many Malawians,” one MP remarked. They accused the administration of failing to live up to its promises, as hunger continues to ravage communities across the country.

The adjournment leaves many citizens wondering about the government’s plans to alleviate food insecurity. Jolobala’s question highlighted the growing disconnect between the administration’s promises and the lived realities of ordinary Malawians. The question of whether the government still prioritizes the promise of three meals a day remains unanswered, further fueling public discontent.

As Parliament resumes in the future, opposition MPs and citizens alike will likely continue pressing the administration for clarity and actionable solutions to address the worsening hunger crisis.