By Burnett Munthali
The 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York has officially ended, with world leaders having departed for their respective countries. However, Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera remains in the United States,
While most heads of state wrapped up their schedules and returned home to address pressing national issues, President Chakwera’s extended stay has sparked concern and criticism back in Malawi. Social media platforms are abuzz with images of the president posing at iconic landmarks and with various dignitaries, raising questions about the purpose of his prolonged visit.
Critics argue that, with the economic challenges Malawi is currently facing, including high inflation, public debt, and ongoing fuel shortages, the president should prioritize returning home to address these issues rather than engaging in what some see as a public relations exercise. Chakwera’s administration is under pressure to implement much-needed reforms and resolve the pressing economic hardships that have affected everyday Malawians.
While Chakwera’s office has yet to issue an official statement on his extended stay, many Malawians are beginning to express frustration over the optics of their leader spending extra time abroad while the country grapples with serious challenges. Some believe that this may undermine his image as a leader focused on fixing Malawi’s issues, especially at a time when citizens expect decisive leadership.
As the criticism grows, it remains to be seen how Chakwera’s team will respond and whether his extended stay in New York will have any significant diplomatic or political benefits to justify the delay. For now, the question remains: should the president be spending this time on foreign soil, or back home steering the country through its current economic storm?
