By Burnett Munthali
Dr. Paul Aaron Gadama, a presidential adviser for the opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has strongly criticized President Lazarus Chakwera’s handling of Malawi’s worsening foreign exchange crisis.
Speaking at a political rally held at Kauma Ground in Lilongwe, Dr. Gadama expressed deep concern over what he described as the president’s reckless and irresponsible spending of the country’s limited forex reserves.
He lamented that at a time when Malawi is facing critical shortages of foreign currency, it is “utterly disheartening” to see the government continue with extravagant expenditures.
According to Dr. Gadama, the president’s recent decision to travel abroad accompanied by the vice president and fourteen cabinet ministers is a clear demonstration of misplaced priorities.
He questioned the logic and necessity of such a large delegation, arguing that these foreign trips are draining the very resources that the nation desperately needs to stabilize its economy.
Dr. Gadama further noted that the forex crisis has far-reaching consequences, particularly on the availability of essential goods, medical supplies, and fuel, which ordinary Malawians are struggling to access.
He accused the Chakwera administration of turning a blind eye to the suffering of the people, while continuing to finance lavish travels and non-essential international engagements.
The DPP presidential adviser also pointed out that past leadership under the DPP had managed the country’s forex reserves with far greater prudence and focus on national development.
He warned that unless serious economic discipline is restored, Malawi risks plunging into a deeper economic crisis that will take years to recover from.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Gadama called on Malawians to vote for the DPP in the upcoming 2025 elections, stating that the party offers a more competent and people-centered approach to governance.
He urged citizens to reflect on their current hardships and consider a leadership that prioritizes economic stability, job creation, and accountable use of public resources.
Dr. Gadama’s remarks at Kauma Ground have added fuel to the growing national debate on government spending and the urgent need for financial reforms in the face of ongoing economic challenges.
As the 2025 election season draws closer, his statements are likely to resonate with a population increasingly frustrated by the cost of living and lack of tangible solutions from the current administration.
