By Staff Reporter
A Chiradzulu-based political activist and social commentator, Suleman Chitera, has called on the Malawi Government to immediately scrap the newly introduced road traffic fines, describing them as harsh, oppressive, and insensitive to the worsening economic situation facing ordinary citizens.
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Chitera said the timing of the new penalties is highly concerning, especially at a moment when Malawians are already grappling with rising fuel prices, persistent electricity outages, water shortages, a soaring cost of living, and limited employment opportunities.
He argued that introducing stricter traffic fines under the current economic pressure amounts to “adding salt to injury” for citizens who are already struggling to meet basic needs.
“This is not the right time to squeeze Malawians further. People are already failing to buy food, pay rent, and support their families. Introducing expensive traffic fines now is unfair and inhumane,” said Chitera.
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The activist warned that continued enforcement of the revised penalties could fuel public frustration and resentment toward authorities, as many citizens feel increasingly overburdened by economic hardship and policy pressures.
His remarks come amid ongoing national debate over the revised road traffic penalties and increased enforcement measures. Reports have indicated growing concern among motorists and transport operators that the system may worsen corruption risks and increase the likelihood of excessive targeting of drivers on the roads.
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Chitera further stressed that road safety should remain the primary objective of traffic enforcement, rather than turning motorists into what he described as revenue collection targets.
He also noted that the new fines are likely to disproportionately affect minibus operators, taxi drivers, motorcycle taxi (kabaza) operators, and small-scale business people who depend on daily transport for their livelihoods.
“Government must understand that these penalties will eventually affect passengers and consumers because transport operators will be forced to increase fares to recover losses,” he said.
Chitera questioned government priorities, urging authorities to first focus on improving road infrastructure, reducing corruption within enforcement systems, and stabilizing the economy before introducing punitive financial measures.
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He appealed directly to President Arthur Peter Mutharika and relevant authorities to reconsider the policy and engage stakeholders in wider national consultations before full implementation.
Meanwhile, concern continues to grow among motorists and transport stakeholders over allegations that enforcement agencies may be operating under revenue collection targets linked to traffic fines. Critics warn this could encourage aggressive roadblocks, excessive penalties, and increased tension between drivers and traffic officers.
On social media, some citizens have also expressed frustration, describing the situation as “economic suffocation,” and accusing authorities of introducing policies that deepen hardship instead of providing relief.
Chitera concluded by warning that failure to address public concerns could have long-term political consequences.
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“Leadership is about protecting citizens during difficult times, not punishing them. Malawians are tired, frustrated, and overwhelmed. Government must act now before public anger escalates,” he said.