By Jones Gadama
President Lazarus Chakwera has made it clear that he will not resign from office, despite growing calls for his resignation amidst mounting challenges facing the country.
Speaking to the youth wing of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) on Tuesday, Chakwera acknowledged the difficulties his administration has faced, but firmly stated that he has no intention of stepping down.
“I will not resign,” he declared, reinforcing his commitment to continue leading the country through its current trials.
The President’s remarks come amidst growing pressure from opposition parties and civil society organizations, who have been calling for his resignation due to his administration’s struggles to address economic difficulties, rising inflation, and public discontent over issues such as corruption and service delivery.
However, Chakwera remains resolute, and has vowed to use the courts to challenge the outcome of the upcoming elections in September, if necessary.
“If we fail elections again in September, we will go to court also,” he stated, highlighting his administration’s reliance on the judicial system to resolve electoral disputes.
The President’s confidence in the courts stems from his own experience in the 2020 elections, where he successfully challenged the results of the previous election, leading to a rerun that ultimately saw him ascend to the presidency.
Critics have argued that Chakwera’s reliance on the courts to resolve electoral disputes undermines the democratic process and erodes public trust in electoral institutions.
However, Chakwera’s supporters view his willingness to engage with the courts as a testament to his commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that the will of the people is respected.
The President’s remarks have sparked mixed reactions from Malawians, with some praising his determination to stay in office, while others have expressed frustration at his refusal to step down.
As the political climate in Malawi continues to evolve, Chakwera’s administration faces the dual challenge of addressing pressing national issues while also preparing for a potentially contentious electoral season.
Only time will tell if the President’s strategy will pay off, or if he will ultimately be forced to relinquish his grip on power.
