By Burnett Munthali
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in alliance with the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) has pledged a new approach to Malawi’s macroeconomic framework as part of their 2025–2030 manifesto.
One of the key promises is to implement consolidated fiscal measures aimed at restoring economic discipline and public trust in government spending.
The manifesto outlines that the DPP-AFORD government will introduce a lean cabinet to reduce excessive public expenditure.
In addition, it plans to slash the budget allocation for state residences, indicating a commitment to trimming down luxury spending by top officials.
Another notable pledge is to review Value Added Tax (VAT) exemptions that currently benefit some public officers, in an effort to create a more equitable tax structure.
The DPP-AFORD manifesto further promises to engage the International Monetary Fund (IMF) within the first six months of assuming office.
According to the document, the administration will seek a new Extended Credit Facility deal tailored specifically to Malawi’s economic realities and challenges.
This move is seen as a strategic attempt to stabilize the country’s foreign reserves, support the kwacha, and improve fiscal sustainability.
In a bold reversal of recent decisions, the manifesto also states that the DPP-AFORD government will relocate back to Blantyre the headquarters of the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA), Malawi Housing Corporation, and the Malawi Prison Services.
These institutions had been moved to Lilongwe by the current administration, a move the DPP-AFORD alliance views as unnecessary and politically motivated.
The re-centralization of these institutions to their original locations is intended to promote administrative efficiency and regional balance in national development.
This manifesto was unveiled on August 3, 2025, during a high-profile event in Blantyre, and it signals a strong return to structured economic management, reduced public spending, and national inclusivity.
The DPP-AFORD alliance believes that their policy package offers a pragmatic roadmap for economic recovery and sustainable governance.
