Non-Government Organization Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) has asked Minister of Information Mark Botomani to withdraw his statement urging people who cannot afford transport fare to walk.

In a press statement seen by Face of Malawi reporter, acting Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa has given Botomani 48 hours to withdraw his remarks.

“CDEDI find such sentiments highly irresponsible and insensitive to the plight of the very same people that ought to be protected,” reads part of the statement.

Added Namiwa, “We therefore ask Botomani to immediately withdraw his sentiments within 48 hours.”

In response to Covid-19 threat, government ordered that sitting capacity in minibuses must be reduced to 2 people per seat.

Following complaints from passengers, Botomani said those who cannot afford the fare hike should be walking, which did not go well with people.

Meanwhile, the minister is yet to respond on the matter.