By Suleman Chitera

The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) has intensified its campaign for greater transparency among public officials, calling on ministers and Members of Parliament whose lifestyles appear to exceed their known sources of income to publicly explain the origin of their wealth.

Speaking during a press briefing in Lilongwe on Monday, CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa stressed that the organisation was not accusing any individual of theft or corruption, but was demanding accountability from leaders entrusted with public office.

“The people we are mentioning are not being accused of stealing government money or engaging in corruption. Please understand that,” Namiwa said.Pressure Mounts on Attorney General Frank Mbeta as CDEDI Demands Resignation

He explained that CDEDI’s concern stems from what it describes as an apparent mismatch between the official salaries earned by ministers and MPs and the value of some of the investments and assets allegedly being accumulated by certain office bearers.

“We are simply asking them to come forward and explain the source of their wealth because we know the salaries earned by ministers and Members of Parliament,” he said.

Namiwa argued that public officials have a responsibility to be transparent whenever questions arise regarding their wealth, saying openness would help restore public confidence in government institutions.Namiwa calls for uniform retirement age in public service

“There are things these individuals are doing that appear to exceed what their official salaries could support. They should come out publicly and explain where they are getting their money,” he added.

The remarks form part of CDEDI’s broader campaign demanding increased accountability and transparency from those holding public office. The organisation has in recent days questioned the wealth and investments of several senior government figures, arguing that public office holders should be prepared to account for their financial standing.

Namiwa maintained that asking leaders to explain the source of their wealth should not be interpreted as a declaration of guilt but rather as a legitimate demand for public accountability.

He said Malawians deserve assurance that public officials are acquiring wealth through lawful and legitimate means, particularly at a time when many citizens are struggling with the rising cost of living and economic hardship.

According to CDEDI, voluntary disclosure by public officials would help dispel speculation and strengthen public trust in governance.PIJ investigation reveals identities of Namiwa attackers

The organisation has therefore challenged those whose lifestyles have attracted public attention to address the nation and provide clear explanations regarding the financing of their businesses, properties and other high-value investments.

The individuals referred to by CDEDI had not publicly responded to the latest remarks by the time of publication.

CDEDI has indicated that it will continue advocating for transparency and accountability, insisting that public confidence in leadership depends not only on compliance with the law but also on leaders’ willingness to openly account for their wealth and financial interests.“Fuel Scandal Explosion: CDEDI Demands Probe Into ‘Missing’ 28.8 Million Litres, Drags Chakwera Into Spotlight”