By Burnett Munthali,
In a powerful and uncompromising interview with Malawi Freedom Network, renowned political analyst and activist, Comrade Edward Kambanje, has delivered a damning critique of President Lazarus Chakwera’s leadership. Kambanje’s response to the President’s recent plea for another term has sent shockwaves through the nation, especially as the country struggles with an economic crisis, corruption, and a general lack of progress.
President Chakwera recently called on Malawians to give him another chance, justifying his request by stating that the past five years were spent “fixing the bones and wounds” of the nation. Kambanje, however, was swift in rejecting this explanation, calling the President’s remarks nothing short of an insult to the Malawian people.
“Malawians should not be fooled,” Kambanje stated. “To ask for more time without delivering tangible results after five years is not just irresponsible—it is a betrayal of the trust the people placed in him.”
The interview delved deep into several key issues that Kambanje believes have been mishandled under Chakwera’s leadership. From the ongoing economic crisis to the persistent fuel shortages and corruption scandals, Kambanje pulled no punches in his assessment of the current administration.
No progress, no results
When asked about the President’s claim of progress, Kambanje was scathing: “Progress? Let’s be honest with ourselves—what progress is there to talk about? The reality is that Malawians are suffering more than ever. The economy is collapsing, businesses are being strangled by forex shortages, and everyday people are finding it increasingly difficult to survive.”
The interview went on to touch on the dire state of public services, which Kambanje described as “in shambles.” “Healthcare and education are in crisis, infrastructure is deteriorating, and the cost of living has skyrocketed,” he said. “Malawians are simply unable to cope with the burden placed on them.”
Chakwera’s excuses
The President’s defense of his administration—that he inherited a broken system—did not impress Kambanje. While he acknowledged that Chakwera faced challenges upon taking office, he argued that the purpose of leadership is to overcome these obstacles and deliver results.
“Every administration inherits problems, but leadership is about solving them, not making excuses,” Kambanje asserted. “Five years later, we still hear the same old excuses. It’s time for action, not rhetoric.”
The call for perseverance
Perhaps the most controversial part of Chakwera’s plea was his call for Malawians to continue persevering, despite the mounting challenges. Kambanje had a blunt response: “Malawians have persevered enough. This call for perseverance is simply a way for the government to deflect from its failures.”
“People are queuing for fuel, struggling to access forex, and watching as corruption scandals dominate the headlines,” he continued. “At some point, perseverance becomes a denial of the truth—the truth that this government has failed to deliver.”
A vote of no confidence
As the conversation turned to the upcoming elections, Kambanje did not mince words when asked if Chakwera deserved another term: “Absolutely not,” he said without hesitation. “Leadership is about results, not excuses. Chakwera has had five years to prove himself, and he has failed spectacularly.”
For Kambanje, the choice facing Malawians is clear: “It’s time for real change—change that puts the welfare of the people above political rhetoric. Malawians need leaders who deliver, not those who make empty promises.”
He urged the electorate to scrutinize Chakwera’s record over the past five years, asking, “Has your life improved? If the answer is no, then it’s time to vote for change.”
Looking to the future
Despite the grim outlook on the current government, Kambanje remains hopeful for the future of Malawi, but only if the right leadership steps forward.
“Malawi has immense potential,” he concluded. “We need visionary leaders who are committed to the people, who can turn this country around. The future is in our hands, and the choice is ours.”
Analysis
Comrade Edward Kambanje’s remarks reflect a growing frustration among many Malawians who are disillusioned with the promises made by President Chakwera and his government. As the country continues to grapple with deep economic and social issues, the call for accountability is louder than ever.
Kambanje’s message is clear: the time for excuses is over, and the nation needs results-driven leadership. With the next election on the horizon, Malawians will soon have to decide whether they will continue to place their trust in Chakwera or opt for real change. What is certain, however, is that the demand for leadership that delivers tangible results will be the defining issue in the months to come.
