By Suleman Chitera
Chikwawa, Malawi – Presidential candidate for the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF), Atupele Muluzi, has pledged that his government will focus on food security and ensuring that every Malawian has money in their pockets if elected during the upcoming September 16 General Election.
Speaking at whistle-stop rallies in Nkhate, Chikwawa East Bank, on Sunday, Muluzi criticized the current administration for failing to address the rising cost of living, saying Malawians are struggling to afford basic commodities.
“Our major targets are ensuring food for the entire nation and making money available to everyone. When we were in power in 1994, the US Dollar was at K110. Today, it is exchanged at K1,700, and on the black market, it goes as high as K4,000. This has pushed up the cost of commodities and hurt people in rural areas. We are the only answer to these challenges,” Muluzi said.
UDF Legacy and Development Promises
Muluzi reminded Malawians of the UDF government’s track record under former president Bakili Muluzi, who introduced free primary education, provided scholastic materials, and launched several development projects that improved people’s livelihoods.
He emphasized that his leadership would restore hope and trust, promising transparency and accountability:
“The country should trust me because I have no history of theft. It is my prayer that you give me a five-year mandate come September 16.”
Local Development Plans in Chikwawa
Also speaking during the rally, Rodreck Sam Khumbanyiwa, the immediate past member of Parliament for Chikwawa East Constituency, said he is determined to deliver more development if re-elected.
Khumbanyiwa outlined his priorities, which include:
Improving education and health services
Bringing electricity to health centres and schools, including Nkhate Trading Centre
Supporting local communities with infrastructure development
Conclusion
As the election date draws closer, Muluzi’s campaign message is centered on reviving Malawi’s economy, reducing poverty, and improving food security. With promises of affordable living and renewed development, the UDF leader is appealing to Malawians to return the party to power for a better and more stable future.
