CDEDI calls for an end to alleged illegal fuel imports

The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) has condemned the alleged illegal importation of fuel under the Government-to-Government (G2G) arrangement and raised concerns over rumored plans to introduce an age cap for presidential candidates.

CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa alleged that some State House officials are unlawfully facilitating the procurement of 360 metric tonnes of fuel linked to the G2G deal.

He emphasized that fuel procurement should follow established regulations and be managed by state institutions, not individuals exploiting political influence.

“We urge those at State House involved in this dubious scheme to step away from fuel matters and allow purchases to be made in line with laid-down regulations and procedures,” Namiwa said.

He also criticized the Ministry of Energy’s recent visit to Tanga, Tanzania, alleging that it misled Malawians into believing the country was receiving fuel from Kenya when, in reality, the supplier was Gulf Energies.

He claimed that what was initially presented as an emergency solution has now become problematic, with large quantities of fuel still stranded in Tanga.

Namiwa urged the government, the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority (MERA), and the National Oil Company of Malawi (NOCMA) to halt the alleged illegal fuel importation to prevent public outrage.

Additionally, he addressed speculation about an age limit bill in Parliament, alleging that significant resources have been allocated to push the bill forward, despite it being unconstitutional and undemocratic.

“We at CDEDI were disturbed to learn from reliable sources that about K1 billion has been spent in attempts to bring this matter to debate in Parliament—at a time when Malawians are starving due to severe food shortages,” Namiwa stated.

The government has yet to comment on the allegations.