By Suleman Chitera
Lilongwe, Malawi – UTM presidential candidate Dalitso Kabambe has unveiled a sweeping reformist vision for Malawi, promising to build a leaner and more accountable government, eliminate corruption, and transform the mining sector into a driver of national development.
Ending Presidential Advisors, Merit-Based Appointments
Kabambe declared that his government would abolish the role of presidential advisors, saying the practice wastes public funds. Instead, ministers would be appointed strictly on merit and would serve as both implementers and advisors to the president.
“We will not waste public funds on presidential advisors. Ministers will be appointed based on merit and will be expected to serve as both implementers and advisors,” Kabambe said.
He further promised to end tribalism in public appointments, ensuring that government jobs are awarded purely on qualifications and competence.
Stronger Public Finance Management and Accountability
Kabambe pledged tight financial discipline through pre-inspection audits for all government departments to curb fraud, waste, and abuse.
In a groundbreaking proposal, he committed to abolishing presidential immunity, allowing sitting heads of state to be prosecuted if they commit crimes while in office.
“The era of unaccountable leadership must end. If a president breaks the law, they must face justice like everyone else,” Kabambe declared.
He also vowed to appoint independent and competent leaders to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and the Auditor General’s office, guaranteeing them full autonomy to operate without political interference.
Mining as the Backbone of Economic Growth
Kabambe described mining as a “pillar of sustainable economic growth” and pledged to inject K500 billion annually into the sector.
“Malawi is rich in precious minerals. Unlike past administrations that ignored this sector, we will make mining a central part of our development strategy,” he said.
He cited Botswana and South Africa as examples of African nations that have built strong economies through responsible mineral exploitation.
Criticism of MCP Government and Malawi’s Economic Crisis
Turning his attention to the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Kabambe accused the government of failing to manage the economy.
He warned that public debt has surged from K4 trillion in 2020 to K18 trillion in 2025, with the true figure possibly even higher.
He further pointed to inflation, fuel shortages, and skyrocketing food prices as evidence of economic collapse.
“Look at the price of fertilizer. If the MCP continues to govern after September 16, Malawians should expect the cost of fertilizer to reach K1 million per bag,” Kabambe warned.
Call for Real Change in 2025 Elections
Kabambe concluded by urging Malawians to embrace a new direction, positioning UTM as the only party with the technical capacity and political will to turn the economy around.
“Malawi is broken because of poor leadership. It’s time for real change,” he said.
