Malawi Freedom Network 
UTM leader demands accountability as he questions ministers’ silence over government failures and fuel crisis promises
By MFN Reporter
UTM Party president Dr Dalitso Kabambe has challenged the culture of political praise and silence within government, arguing that demanding answers from the President should never be mistaken for disrespect or an attempt to undermine the Head of State.
Kabambe says Malawians have the right to question their leaders, particularly when government promises are not translating into solutions to the challenges facing ordinary citizens.
He expressed concern that people who raise questions about government performance are increasingly portrayed as political attackers rather than citizens exercising their democratic right to demand accountability.
The UTM leader questioned why ministers and other government officials are quick to applaud President Peter Mutharika when things are going well but become silent when mistakes and governance challenges emerge.
“Ministers applaud the President and praise him for being wise and strong when things are going well. But when he makes mistakes, these people have nothing to say,” Kabambe said.
His remarks raise a broader question about the responsibility of ministers in a democratic government: should their role be limited to praising the President, or should they also speak openly when government policies and decisions fail to deliver?
Fuel crisis puts government promises under scrutiny
Kabambe also turned his attention to the country’s fuel challenges, reminding those in government of earlier assurances that the situation would be resolved.
He questioned the effectiveness of promises made during the fuel crisis, particularly the commitment that Malawians would no longer have to endure long queues at filling stations.
“Friends, you slept at filling stations. You said we would solve these problems ourselves. So, how is that working out now?” he asked.
The statement reflects growing public frustration over fuel availability, long queues and the economic difficulties associated with unreliable fuel supplies.
For motorists, transport operators, businesses and ordinary households, fuel shortages have consequences that extend beyond filling stations. They affect transport costs, the movement of goods, business operations and the cost of living.
Accountability is not disrespect
At the centre of Kabambe’s argument is the distinction between political criticism and personal attacks against the President.
In a democratic system, questioning government performance is an essential part of accountability. The President, ministers and other public officials are responsible for decisions that affect millions of citizens and should therefore be prepared to explain their actions.
Kabambe’s intervention puts pressure on government officials to demonstrate that their commitment to national leadership goes beyond public praise and political loyalty.
The bigger question now is whether those entrusted with running government institutions are prepared to acknowledge shortcomings, explain failed promises and provide practical solutions to the problems confronting Malawians.
For Kabambe, asking difficult questions should not be treated as an act of hostility. It should be recognised as part of responsible political leadership and democratic accountability.
