Concerned Citizens Commend Mutharika’s Early Reforms

A grouping calling itself Concerned Citizens has commended President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika for swiftly addressing key challenges Malawians were facing within his first 90 days in office, describing the progress as a positive signal for the country’s direction as it enters 2026.

In a New Year message, the group’s leader, Comrade Edward Kambanje, said Malawi has experienced notable improvements compared to the same period last year, when citizens were grappling with persistent fuel queues, shortages of essential commodities, and escalating prices.

“During the same period last year, Malawians were struggling to access fuel and basic necessities, and prices were rising sharply. Today, these challenges have significantly eased,” said Kambanje.

He praised President Mutharika’s administration for sustaining food availability and reducing prices of key household commodities such as maize and cooking oil, developments he said have brought relief to many families across the country.

Kambanje also highlighted improvements in fuel supply, particularly during the festive season, noting that citizens were able to access fuel without difficulty.

“People did not struggle to buy fuel during the festive season. This is a positive sign and reflects growing stability,” he said.

Reflecting on national governance, Kambanje described the peaceful and conflict-free transition of power following the September elections as a major milestone for Malawi’s democracy.

He said the smooth transfer demonstrated political maturity and a shared commitment among leaders to national progress.

“The peaceful transition of power is evidence that politicians across the divide want Malawi to move forward,” he said, attributing the success to the country’s peaceful and God-fearing nature.

Kambanje further reminded political leaders that authority is derived from the people, citing Section 12 of the Republican Constitution, which emphasizes that all legal and political authority stems from the will of the people.

He pointed to the recent parliamentary elections—where only 70 out of 193 Members of Parliament were re-elected—as a clear demonstration of growing democratic accountability.

“This shows that citizens have the power to decide who leads them, and leaders must always put the interests of the people first,” he added.

Looking ahead, Kambanje expressed optimism about Malawi’s future, urging citizens to remain united and vigilant while working collectively to build a nation founded on democracy, integrity, and sustainable development.