By Suleman Chitera
The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) has intensified pressure on government, demanding urgent investigations into alleged corruption at the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA), while also calling for sweeping reforms in the fertiliser sector and a fresh probe into the deadly plane crash that claimed the life of former Vice President Dr Saulos Chilima.
CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa says the organisation is in possession of evidence pointing to systematic corruption at NOCMA, accusing the state-owned fuel importer of engaging in dubious practices that require immediate government intervention.
“We cannot sit back while public institutions are looted,” Namiwa said, warning that failure to act would further erode public trust and worsen Malawi’s economic woes.
ACB Engaged
CDEDI has formally written to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), submitting details of its findings and urging the graft-busting body to move swiftly.
The organisation says accountability at NOCMA is critical, given the company’s central role in fuel procurement and national economic stability.
Scrap Affordable Inputs, Produce Fertiliser Locally
Beyond corruption claims, CDEDI is challenging government policy on agriculture subsidies. The group wants authorities to abandon the Affordable Inputs Programme, arguing that it has failed to deliver sustainable relief to struggling farmers.
Instead, CDEDI is pushing for local fertiliser production, saying domestic manufacturing would drastically reduce costs, create jobs and shield Malawi from volatile global markets.
“Malawi cannot continue importing poverty,” Namiwa said, adding that local fertiliser production is a long-overdue solution.
Fresh Probe Into Chilima Plane Crash
In a move likely to reignite national debate, CDEDI has also called for a new investigation into the plane crash that killed Saulos Chilima and others.
The organisation says it is not convinced that the official investigation fully explained the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, insisting that unanswered questions remain.
CDEDI argues that a transparent and independent reinvestigation is necessary to restore public confidence and ensure justice for the victims and their families.
Pressure Mounts on Government
With corruption allegations, economic policy criticism and demands for accountability over a national tragedy, CDEDI’s latest intervention adds fresh pressure on government at a time of growing public frustration.
Whether authorities will act decisively—or attempt to downplay the calls—could define the next chapter in Malawi’s fight against corruption, economic hardship and institutional mistrust.
