Malawi Freedom Network 
By Suleman Chitera, MFN Reporter
Political interests are undermining economic decision-making in Malawi, with government leaders allegedly prioritising electoral popularity over policies needed to address the country’s economic challenges, says Institute for Policy Research and Social Empowerment (IPRSE) head Dr Henry Chingaipe.
Chingaipe made the observation while reacting to the latest Afrobarometer survey released on Wednesday, which found that 60 percent of Malawians believe the country is heading in the wrong direction.
He argued that fear of public backlash has repeatedly influenced government decisions, sometimes at the expense of economic stability and long-term development.
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Chingaipe cited fuel pricing, currency devaluation and political appointments as examples of areas where political calculations have taken precedence over economic considerations.
“The previous administration failed to raise fuel prices because politically it was dangerous, while sometimes people are appointed to positions because they belong to a political party rather than their competence to do the job,” he said.
He also criticised political interference in foreign exchange management and agricultural policies, arguing that Malawi needs a stronger focus on production, exports and foreign currency generation.
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According to Chingaipe, sustainable economic recovery requires leaders to make decisions based on economic realities and professional competence rather than political convenience.
Meanwhile, Afrobarometer National Investigator in Malawi and Centre for Social Research Senior Research Fellow Joseph Chunga said the survey revealed that many Malawians prefer alternative approaches to generating foreign exchange instead of currency devaluation.
Chunga said respondents also support government efforts to keep fuel prices manageable, even where this could affect availability, while favouring farmgate prices that protect consumers from high food costs.
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The findings highlight the difficult choices facing policymakers as Malawi struggles with foreign exchange shortages, fuel supply challenges and rising living costs.
They also point to a tension between citizens’ expectations for affordable essential commodities and the economic adjustments that may be necessary to improve supply and restore stability.
