By Contributor
The Executive Director of the Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiative (CDEDI), Sylvester Namiwa, has intensified calls for accountability by urging authorities to arrest and investigate former president Lazarus Chakwera over alleged economic mismanagement during his time in office.
Speaking to the media, Namiwa argued that several unresolved issues from Chakwera’s administration continue to raise serious concerns among Malawians, particularly surrounding the country’s rising national debt, missing fuel donations, and persistent foreign exchange shortages.
Rising National Debt
Namiwa claimed that Malawi’s national debt ballooned significantly during Chakwera’s tenure. According to him, the country’s combined domestic and external debt stood at approximately K4 trillion prior to Chakwera assuming office, but surged to around K21 trillion by the end of his administration.
He questioned the justification for such a sharp increase, arguing that there is limited visible development to match the scale of borrowing.
“Amangobwereka ndalama kumalowa nthumba mwa anthu,” said Namiwa, suggesting that borrowed funds may not have been used for public benefit.
Fuel Donation Controversy
Namiwa also raised concerns over a fuel donation reportedly received from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He alleged that Malawi received 30 million litres of fuel, but only about 3 million litres can currently be accounted for.
The whereabouts of the remaining 27 million litres, he said, remain unclear, calling for a thorough investigation to establish how the fuel was distributed or utilized.
Forex Shortages and Cost of Living
Further, Namiwa highlighted the ongoing scarcity of foreign exchange (forex), noting that access to forex through commercial banks was relatively stable prior to Chakwera’s presidency. He questioned what led to the current difficulties faced by importers and businesses.
He also pointed to the rising cost of living during the same period, with prices of essential commodities such as fertilizer, maize, and sugar reportedly increasing sharply, placing additional pressure on ordinary Malawians.
Call for Legal Action
Namiwa has since appealed to the Director of Public Prosecutions, Fostino Maere, to act swiftly by launching investigations into the matter.
He emphasized that Malawians deserve transparency and accountability from their leaders, regardless of their position or past office.
“This is about ensuring that public resources are accounted for and that those entrusted with leadership uphold the law,” Namiwa said.
The government and relevant authorities are yet to respond to the allegations.
