Malawi’s opposition party has called for an official explanation regarding President Peter Mutharika’s extended absence in South Africa, citing mounting economic and infrastructure challenges facing the country. The 86-year-old leader departed on October 6 for what government officials characterized as a private visit, marking his fifth trip to the neighboring nation within the calendar year. The opposition Malawi Congress Party stated that the country is at a critical juncture requiring immediate governmental attention.
Opposition figures, including MCP campaign director Moses Kunkuyu, clarified that they do not dispute the president’s right to travel for personal reasons. However, they urged Vice-President Jane Ansah to address the nation regarding the country’s escalating difficulties. Kunkuyu emphasized that citizens deserve confirmation that responsible leadership remains engaged with national affairs, particularly given widespread suffering caused by multiple crises.
Malawi is currently experiencing severe shortages of fuel, electricity, essential medicines in public hospitals, and foreign currency access. Long queues have developed at petrol stations, while unreliable power supplies have intensified public frustration. The opposition specifically requested the government outline its strategy for resolving these interconnected challenges.
Information Minister Shadric Namalomba defended the president’s absence, asserting that a state president maintains authority regardless of physical location. When pressed about the visit’s purpose, the minister declined to provide specifics, noting that private trips remain private matters. He countered opposition criticism by attributing current economic difficulties to the previous administration’s mismanagement.
Earlier this month, government officials denied unverified social media reports suggesting Mutharika had traveled to India for medical treatment. Chief Secretary Justin Saidi confirmed the president remained in South Africa and discouraged public speculation. Mutharika has previously characterized health concerns as unfounded, describing such claims as “silly and laughable.” The president returned to office in October last year after defeating Lazarus Chakwera and previously governed Malawi between 2014 and 2020.
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