Suleman Chitera 
By Suleman Chitera, MFN Reporter
23 October 2026
The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has questioned the country’s leadership arrangements following President Peter Mutharika’s absence from Malawi, prompting Information Minister Shadreck Namalomba to defend the President amid growing economic challenges.
MCP officials Moses Kunkuyu and Jessie Kabwila have questioned Mutharika’s private trip abroad, demanding clarity as Malawians continue to face fuel shortages, electricity blackouts, rising prices and foreign exchange difficulties.
The opposition’s concerns have reignited debate over government transparency, presidential accountability and the administration’s response to the economic difficulties affecting ordinary citizens.
Namalomba Defends President
Responding to the criticism, Namalomba dismissed suggestions that Mutharika’s absence had created a leadership vacuum, insisting that the President remained in control of the country regardless of his location.
However, the minister declined to disclose the President’s whereabouts, describing the trip as private.
His response comes amid growing public concern over the country’s economic situation, with fuel shortages disrupting transport and business activities while electricity blackouts continue to affect households and businesses.
The opposition has questioned whether the government is communicating adequately with citizens during this challenging period.
MCP Demands Answers
Kunkuyu and Kabwila have challenged the government to explain the circumstances surrounding Mutharika’s absence and provide clarity on the country’s leadership.
Their criticism focuses on the contrast between government assurances and the economic difficulties facing ordinary Malawians.
For citizens struggling with rising living costs, fuel shortages and unreliable electricity, the immediate concern remains whether the government can deliver practical solutions to the problems affecting their daily lives.
The opposition’s questions have also placed the spotlight on the government’s responsibility to keep the public informed about matters of national importance.
Namalomba Accuses MCP
Namalomba also turned his criticism towards the MCP, accusing the opposition of contributing to the challenges it is now raising.
However, he did not provide evidence to substantiate the allegation in the remarks outlined.
The exchange has widened the political debate, with both sides facing questions about their claims and the evidence supporting their positions.
While the government maintains that Mutharika remains in control, the opposition is demanding greater clarity about his absence and the administration’s handling of the economic situation.
Questions Remain Over Economic Challenges
The dispute comes at a time when fuel availability, electricity supply, foreign exchange constraints and rising prices remain major concerns for Malawians.
The government’s position is that the President remains in charge despite being outside the country, while the MCP wants clearer communication and answers about the country’s leadership.
Ultimately, the public will be looking for more than political exchanges. Citizens need clear information about the country’s leadership and practical measures to ease the economic pressure affecting households and businesses.
As the debate continues, questions remain over when the government will provide further clarity about the President’s absence and what concrete steps it will take to address the challenges facing the country.
