By Suleman Chitera

Leader of Opposition Simplex Chithyola Banda has called on the Ministries of Information and Foreign Affairs to explain the credibility and background of the African Presidency Accountability Council, a body that recently recognized President Peter Mutharika as the best performing president in Africa.

Chithyola made the remarks in Parliament after Chikwawa Central Member of Parliament requested the House to formally commend President Mutharika following the reported recognition.Chithyola Banda: Between Allegations and Political Undercurrents

While acknowledging that the presidency is an institution that deserves respect, the opposition leader said Malawi must be cautious when dealing with awards or recognitions from organisations whose credibility has not been clearly established.

Chithyola argued that the Office of the President carries national significance and should not be associated with questionable claims without proper verification.Chithyola calls for progressive performance among SOEs

“The presidency is an important institution that must be protected. We need to know more about the organisation behind this recognition and whether it is a credible body,” Chithyola said.

He urged the relevant ministries to provide Parliament and the public with detailed information about the African Presidency Accountability Council, including its mandate, membership and criteria used to assess African leaders.Chithyola Calls for Removal of Fuel Levies to Ease Economic Burden

The call comes amid public debate over the recognition, with some stakeholders welcoming the award as a sign of confidence in Mutharika’s leadership, while others are demanding more transparency about the organisation that issued it.

Government has not yet issued a detailed response to Chithyola’s request.