By Suleman Chitera

Newly elected Member of Parliament for Blantyre City Zingwangwa Constituency, Penjani “Fredokiss” Kalua, has said Malawians voted for President Arthur Peter Mutharika out of anger and frustration caused by persistent economic and social hardships.

Speaking ahead of Mutharika’s swearing-in ceremony at Kamuzu Stadium on Friday, Kalua said recent national challenges influenced the electorate to opt for a leader they considered experienced and capable of restoring stability.

“People are angry because they are hungry. They cannot find fuel, businesses are collapsing due to forex shortages, and families cannot cope with rising prices,” said Kalua.

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He said the tragic death of Vice President Dr. Saulos Chilima, the continuing fuel crisis, food shortages, and a struggling economy had deepened public discontent, prompting voters to seek change through the ballot.

Kalua, who represents the UTM Party in Parliament, said his attendance at the inauguration was motivated by patriotism rather than party loyalty.

“My presence here is about national unity and development, not politics,” said Kalua.

Meanwhile, former presidents Dr. Bakili
Muluzi and Dr. Joyce Banda, alongside former vice presidents, government officials, and foreign dignitaries, were among the early arrivals at Kamuzu Stadium to witness Mutharika’s inauguration as Malawi’s seventh president.