The main opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has condemned President Lazarus Chakwera’s continued tendency of inviting citizens to State House and giving them money, saying it tantamount to vote rigging.
In a statement signed by the party’s national spokesperson Shadric Namalomba, DPP said that these gatherings are nothing more than a misuse of public funds intended to sway political loyalty and influence public perception as we approach the tripartite elections scheduled for September 16, 2025.
“The Malawian people deserve better. The K50,000 handed out to participants is a superficial gesture that fails to address the fundamental needs of our citizens.
“It neither resolves the high cost of living nor provides lasting solutions to the problems of government-induced hunger, skyrocketing poverty, and rampant youth unemployment.
“These are the issues that should demand the full attention of any conscientious government-a government that seeks the welfare of its people above the entrenchment of its own power.
“Furthermore, we express our concerns that the credibility of the forthcoming elections is at stake due to the involvement of civil servants, who are being invited to the State House and will directly participate in the administration of the September 16 tripartite elections. This situation poses a serious threat to the integrity of our electoral process.
“Moreover, the current administration seems to foster an environment of corruption, ignoring pressing concerns such as the dilapidation of road infrastructure, the decline in health services, and the economic instability that affects us all. These failings stand as a testament to misplaced priorities, and they demand immediate attention and action,” reads the statement in part
Namalomba urged Chakwera to instead, focus on uplifting the lives of Malawians, not engaging in political theater as the electorate deserves transparency, integrity, and real solutions to their daily struggles, not temporary appeasements.
“Our direct message to Chakwera: Stop this bribery and misuse of public resources immediately. Your actions are stirring public anger. Misuse of power cannot be hidden behind the shield of state immunity. When 16 September 2025 comes, be prepared to face the consequences of your actions under the law.
“To those who receive the State House money, we urge you to recognize it for what it is-a token that must not influence your vote. Accept it if you must, but let not its receipt bind your conscience. The future of our nation and the well-being of our communities hinge on an informed and unwavering decision-making process come election day,” he said
The party has called on the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and the Registrar of Political Parties to ensure that all electoral laws and the Political Parties Act are fully enforced without bias.
“Additionally, we urge civil society and international observers to remain vigilant in protecting our democratic institutions and processes. The manipulated engagements by the current administration are detrimental to democratic integrity, and we must unite to ensure the sanctity and fairness of our electoral process.
“The DPP remains steadfast in our commitment to fostering democracy, promoting transparency, and improving the lives of all Malawians. We stand with the people, ready to address the real issues and lead with honesty and purpose,” he said
