Government Urged to Prioritize Transparency and Effective Policy Implementation

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

Renowned good governance activist Undule Mwakasungula has called upon the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) led government to exercise transparency, effective implementation of policies, and sustained public and international support to deliver results.

Mwakasungula made these remarks in a public statement released on Thursday, December 12, 2024, in response to President Lazarus Chakwera’s national address delivered on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.

Mwakasungula commended President Chakwera’s national address, stating that it demonstrates his commitment to addressing pressing issues such as hunger, unemployment, and promoting democracy.

The government’s efforts to resolve long-term challenges like the fuel and forex crisis through the government-to-government (G2G) fuel arrangement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and other fiscal policies are also noteworthy.

During his national addresss, President Chakwera acknowledged that Malawi is facing several challenges, including a crisis of food, fertilizer, fuel, and forex.

However, he assured the nation that his government is working tirelessly to address these issues.

Chakwera emphasized the importance of discipline in resource management, stressing that it is crucial to use resources wisely.

He also highlighted his priority in public spending, which is to improve people’s welfare by procuring enough food and fertilizer to end hunger and provide necessary supplies.

Additionally, the President commended institutions like the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and African Development Bank for their support in finding long-term solutions to the fuel and forex crisis.

He also mentioned that the United Arab Emirates is assisting Malawi in addressing its crisis, with a delegation expected to finalize deals following Chakwera’s recent visit to the UAE.

Again, President Chakwera also announced that he has appointed Engineer Vitumbiko Mumba as the new Minister of Labor, replacing Agness Nyalonje who resigned from the post.

Mumba, a member of the MCP, brings a wealth of experience to the position, having worked as a professional engineer and consultant in various fields.

The government’s commitment to addressing these issues is crucial, and the appointment of Engineer Mumba as Minister of Labor is a step in the right direction.