By Watipaso Mzungu:
Malawi’s leading non-governmental organizations, Forum for National Development (FND) and the Malawi Health Equity Network (MHEN), have hailed the decision by President Peter Mutharika to issue an Executive Order aimed at restoring integrity and accountability in Malawi’s public health system.
The Order, issued on February 16, 2026, prohibits public health employees from owning or operating private health facilities, requiring them to divest within 30 days or face dismissal and prosecution. It also strictly prohibits soliciting, demanding, or receiving bribes from patients.
FND National Coordinator Fryson Chodzi described the Order as a game-changer for the country’s public health sector, adding this is powerful and compassionate decision” by the President to protect poor and local citizens from exploitation.
“Healthcare is a constitutional and moral obligation of the state, and it must never become a marketplace where the vulnerable are forced to buy what is rightfully theirs,” Chodzi said.
MHEN Executive Director George Jobe echoed Chodzi’s sentiments, saying the Order is a “bold and long-overdue intervention” aimed at protecting Malawians’ constitutional right to access public health services without illegal payments, coercion, or discrimination.
“Access to healthcare is a constitutional right, not a privilege for those who can pay bribes. his Executive Order marks a turning point in restoring integrity, equity, and accountability in Malawi’s health system,” said Jobe.
The Order is expected to improve public confidence in the health sector, strengthen service delivery, and protect public resources.
However, MHEN has emphasized that the true test lies in its enforcement, calling on the government to establish clear reporting and complaint mechanisms, protect whistleblowers, and address systemic corruption drivers.
The Executive Order is seen as a statement of values, affirming Malawi’s public health system must operate on integrity, fairness, and service to the people.
