Opposition describes 2024 as year of darkness, void leadership

The Leader of Opposition in Parliament, George Chaponda, has described 2024 as a year of profound challenges for Malawi, marked by tragedy, leadership failures, and the erosion of trust in government institutions.

In a statement reflecting on the year, Chaponda called for 2025 to be a turning point for accountability, progress, and renewed commitment to the people of Malawi.

He pointed out the loss of Vice President Saulos Chilima and eight other Malawians in a tragic plane crash in June, as a deep scar on the nation.

He criticized the government’s handling of the tragedy, stating that the Commission of Inquiry failed to deliver justice and answers to the families of the victims.

“The commission has been a farce, deepening the sense of betrayal among Malawians. We cannot and will not accept a hollow exercise that ignores the truth,” said Chaponda in a statement.

He also pointed out systemic failures in the country, including severe shortages of foreign exchange, fuel, and essential medicines, which have left hospitals struggling and the health system on the brink of collapse.

On agriculture, Chaponda criticized the implementation of the Affordable Inputs Program (AIP), which he described as disastrous.

He argued that what should have been a lifeline for struggling farmers became another example of leadership failure.

“Instead of progress, we have seen the erosion of trust in institutions that should serve us,” he said.

Looking ahead, Chaponda urged leaders and citizens alike to draw lessons from the challenges of 2024 and ensure that 2025 becomes a year of accountability and meaningful progress.

“Let this be the year we say, ‘Enough is enough.’ We owe it to those we have lost, to those who continue to suffer, and to the generations that will follow,” he concluded.

Government spokesperson Moses Kunkuyu did not answer our calls despite several attempts to get his comments on Chaponda’s remarks.

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