By Burnett Munthali
Renowned social activist Bon Kalindo, popularly known as “The DC,” has sent shockwaves across Malawi with a hard-hitting audio clip that has gone viral on social media. In his latest critique, Kalindo warns Malawians against placing blind trust in political leaders, describing them as “the greatest liars” who have consistently betrayed the nation.
In the audio, Kalindo emphasizes that relying wholeheartedly on politicians is a dangerous mistake, one that could lead the country’s citizens to “eat sand soil” due to broken promises and deceitful leadership. Specifically targeting the current Malawi Congress Party (MCP) leadership, Kalindo urged Malawians to believe in themselves, set clear goals, and work towards their own better future.
Kalindo accuses political leaders of prioritizing personal enrichment over the welfare of the nation. Referencing a song by the late musician Lucius Banda, he likens politicians to the roots of a tree that may appear to fight above ground but unite secretly for their own benefit. Kalindo claims this dynamic was evident during the funeral of Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima, who tragically died in a plane crash in Chikangawa Forest.
According to Kalindo, a Commission of Inquiry revealed that MWK 160 million was distributed among political parties during the funeral. However, independent investigations by a watchdog organization, Malawi First, suggest the actual figure was a staggering MWK 1.5 billion. Kalindo alleges that this money, intended for condolence efforts, was misappropriated, uniting opposition and ruling parties in corruption.
The activist expressed disappointment over what he termed as “unity for looting” during the late Vice President’s funeral. Kalindo accuses political parties of collaborating with the ruling MCP to misuse public funds, leaving bereaved families without proper support. He further criticized opposition parties for being complicit, describing their behavior as selfish and irresponsible.
“Malawian politicians only unite to share stolen money,” Kalindo said. “The sad faces and handshakes at the Vice President’s funeral were merely for show. The truth is that they used the funeral as an excuse to loot public resources.”
Kalindo has called on all 10 political parties involved in the alleged misappropriation of funds to repay the money. “This is taxpayers’ money,” he said, “intended to develop this country, not to enrich corrupt leaders.”
He further criticized the State House for extravagant expenditures, including over MWK 1 trillion allocated for non-essential items like flowers, and highlighted Parliament’s recent approval of an additional MWK 1 billion within six months.
Kalindo painted a grim picture of Malawi under the current leadership, citing widespread corruption, a collapsing Agricultural Input Program (AIP), and the deteriorating state of public institutions like the police force. He criticized President Lazarus Chakwera for failing to address critical issues, such as the high cost of maize and national starvation, while allowing rampant looting of public resources.
“The President has no clear agenda for Malawi,” Kalindo said. “He became President only because of the tireless efforts of the late Vice President, Dr. Saulos Chilima, who sacrificed so much for this government.”
In his closing remarks, Kalindo urged Malawians to pray for a visionary leader who genuinely prioritizes the nation’s welfare. He lamented the current state of the country, where leaders “harvest as they wish” and leave citizens to suffer.
“We need leaders who will put the interests of Malawians first, not those who enrich themselves while the nation starves,” Kalindo said.
The audio clip has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many praising Kalindo for his courage and honesty. Others, however, have questioned his timing and motives, suggesting that his criticisms may have political undertones.
As the audio continues to gain traction, calls for accountability and transparency from both the government and opposition parties are growing louder. Whether these demands will lead to tangible action remains to be seen.
