By Burnett Munthali
Deputy Minister of Transport and Public Works, Steve Baba Malondera, has expressed confidence that the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) will emerge victorious in the upcoming September 16 elections despite opposition parties believing they have a chance to unseat the government.
Malondera, who spoke at a public gathering, emphasized that the ruling party has a stronghold in the central region, where a significant number of voters have registered, making it unlikely for the opposition to take over.
According to Malondera, MCP has built a solid support base in the central region, and the party’s development agenda continues to resonate with the people.
He argued that the opposition is underestimating the loyalty of central region voters, who have traditionally supported MCP and are likely to do so again in the forthcoming elections.
He highlighted that voter registration data indicates that a large percentage of registered voters come from the central region, which he believes will be a decisive factor in ensuring MCP’s victory.
In his address, Malondera also urged farmers to take advantage of the affordable agricultural inputs provided by the government.
He advised them not to sell the subsidized farming equipment and fertilizers on the black market but rather to use them to improve their productivity.
The deputy minister stressed that the government’s efforts to support agriculture are meant to empower farmers and enhance food security in the country.
Selling the equipment for quick financial gain, he warned, would only undermine the progress that the government has made in ensuring a stable agricultural sector.
Super Rich centers, which have been established in different parts of the country, have become key players in distributing affordable farm inputs to local farmers.
These centers are part of the government’s broader initiative to make agricultural supplies accessible to farmers at reduced costs.
Malondera reiterated that these centers are meant to boost food production and reduce reliance on expensive imports.
He urged communities to utilize these facilities wisely instead of taking advantage of them for short-term financial benefits.
Malondera’s remarks come at a time when opposition parties are intensifying their campaigns, arguing that MCP’s time in power has not brought the economic relief that many Malawians expected.
The opposition has been vocal about the rising cost of living, unemployment, and governance concerns, which they believe will persuade voters to opt for change.
However, Malondera dismissed such claims, insisting that the MCP-led government has made significant strides in improving infrastructure, agriculture, and social welfare programs.
The political atmosphere in Malawi is heating up as the election date draws closer.
With parties aggressively campaigning and making bold claims about their chances, the final outcome will ultimately depend on voter turnout and how effectively each party can mobilize its supporters.
While Malondera remains confident in MCP’s victory, the opposition remains equally optimistic about securing a win.
As September 16 approaches, all eyes will be on the electoral commission to ensure a free and fair election.
Meanwhile, the ruling party continues to assure its supporters that it has the numbers needed to remain in power, while opposition parties work tirelessly to prove otherwise.
