By Vincent Gunde

The Concerned Citizen of Malawi – People Power Movement, says they are deeply concerned by poor tobacco sales and increasing rejection of tobacco bales saying this is affecting farmers and reducing income circulation in communities.Concerned tobacco farmers’ pens Government on tobacco prices

The Citizen Group has claimed that many households are already under severe economic pressure by the continued fuel shortages across the country, especially the scarcity of diesel which continues to negatively affect businesses, transport services, farmers and ordinary Malawians.

They have joined calls for government to consider reducing certain taxes, including PAYE, in order to cushion workers, consumers and businesses during this difficult period.Malawi generates $12.4 million from tobacco sales

In a statement dated 25th May, 2026 signed by Comrades Edwards Kambanje and Oliver Nakoma, the Concerned Citizen Group has urged government to urgently stabilize fuel supply, address the rising cost of living and implement practical economic relief measures that can restore confidence among citizens.

” We are concerned that fuel prices in Malawi remain extremely high despite the worsening economic situation, high fuel prices continue increasing the cost of transport, food and other essential goods,” reads the statement in part.Tobacco farmers decries high rejections of bales at the Lilongwe Auction Floors

The Citizen Group has warned government that failure to address the concerns will leave them with no option but to take lawful action in accordance with the laws of Malawi so that the voices of citizens are heard and respected, saying the welfare of Malawians must remain a national priority.

A concerned citizen of Malawi Mrs. Elizabeth Kaliza Banda, has asked President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika to borrow a leaf from the late Tanzanian President John Pombe Magufuli and Burkina Faso’s President Captain Ibrahim Traole to cut salaries of ministers, MPs and top civil servants by half so that the deducted money go towards cushioning prices of essential goods in the country.Malawi Tobacco Sales Hit K22.3 Billion in Two Weeks as 2026 Market Season Opens Strong

Kaliza Banda has observed that most Malawians are in abstract poverty while politicians are the ones that are happy enriching themselves at the expense of the suffering Malawians.

She said President Professor Mutharika has nothing to lose, he will serve for one term in office saying 50 percent deduction from ministers, judges, MPs and other top government officials will make each and everyone in Malawi to understand that the country is in a worsening economic situation.Roza Mbilizi Pushes for Fair Tobacco Prices and Stronger Market Regulation to Protect Malawi Farmers

The Citizen has noted with a great concern that ministers and MPs are pocketing monthly salaries of over K6 million while someone is pocketing K150,000 to K200,000 as salary per month, describing this as an insult on its own.

” If government cannot review fuel levies, Mr. President, cut 50 percent from your salary and those of ministers, MPs, judges and other top officials for Malawians to support you,” said Kaliza Banda.Tobacco Rakes In K170 Billion Sales