By Burnett Munthali
Former President Joyce Banda has officially presented herself and the People’s Party (PP) as a credible alternative in the upcoming September 16 presidential election, pledging to provide experienced and decisive leadership to rescue Malawi from its current economic and social challenges.

Speaking during the party’s manifesto launch in Lilongwe, Banda said the PP is committed to “Restore, Rebuild, and Re‑energize” Malawi’s development journey, ensuring that the country remains on track to achieve the Malawi 2063 development agenda. She emphasized that her leadership would prioritize stability and inclusivity, making Malawi a place where all citizens can feel proud to call home.
Banda painted a sobering picture of the country’s current economic situation, citing persistent shortages of foreign exchange and fuel that have crippled key sectors such as healthcare and manufacturing. She argued that the country’s economic management has been disjointed and ineffective, calling for a new approach that balances quick stabilization measures with long-term growth strategies as outlined in the PP manifesto.
Highlighting the gravity of the crisis, Banda noted that Malawi’s economic growth remains sluggish, with a growth rate of just 1.8 percent in 2024 compared to a population growth rate of 2.6 percent. This, she said, has resulted in a steady decline in GDP per capita for three consecutive years, reflecting a lack of economic vision and poor fiscal discipline.
She also expressed concern over the rising cost of living, pointing out that the depreciation of the kwacha has eroded household purchasing power, making salary adjustments ineffective. Banda referred to the World Bank’s recent revision of the poverty line from $2.15 to $3 per day, which has pushed Malawi’s poverty rate from 70.1 percent to 75.4 percent, further underscoring the severity of the economic decline.
In her address, Banda reminded Malawians of her previous record in office between 2012 and 2014, a period during which her administration managed to stabilize fuel supplies, restore foreign reserves, and address key economic disruptions. She said her past achievements demonstrate her ability to navigate crises and implement practical solutions to restore public confidence and economic stability.
The manifesto launch, which was attended by party members, supporters, and various stakeholders, presented PP’s key priorities aimed at tackling poverty, improving public service delivery, and fostering inclusive development. Banda urged Malawians to scrutinize the manifestos of all political parties, evaluate their funding strategies, and choose leaders who can turn promises into actionable policies.
With just under two months before the elections, Banda reaffirmed that the People’s Party stands ready to offer pragmatic leadership and a renewed sense of purpose for Malawi’s future.