By Suleman Chitera, Mzuzu, Malawi

The Mzuzu Youth Caucus (MYC) has thrown down the gauntlet, demanding that President Lazarus Chakwera reinstates Mayamiko Nkoloma as a Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) commissioner — and they’ve given him just 24 hours to act.

The fiery ultimatum comes after the President controversially reversed his own decision to appoint Nkoloma, citing his status as a government employee. But the youth-led organization isn’t buying it — and they’re not staying silent.

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“Appointing Nkoloma was a bold step in showing that young people can lead. Revoking that decision sends a dangerous message — that youth don’t belong in high offices,” said MYC Chairperson Gomezgani Nkhoma during a packed press briefing in Mzuzu.

Nkhoma pointed out that a 2014 High Court ruling clearly stated that public university lecturers, like Nkoloma, are not classified as government employees — making the revocation not only questionable but also potentially unlawful.

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“This is more than just about Nkoloma,” Nkhoma added. “It’s about respecting youth voices and honoring promises of inclusivity.”

MYC warns that failure to reverse the decision will be seen as a betrayal of the government’s commitment to youth empowerment — a stance that could trigger nationwide youth mobilization.

As the clock ticks, pressure mounts. Will the government stand by its youth, or risk alienating the very generation it claims to champion?

Stay tuned as the 24-hour deadline approaches.