The Economic Freedom Movement (EFM) has raised concerns about the government’s decision to allocate K2.7 billion towards constructing a mausoleum in honor of late politician Gwanda Chakuamba.
EFM commander-in-chief, Joseph Peshi, questioned the decision, arguing that while it is important to honor national heroes, the funds could be better utilized given the current economic hardships affecting millions of Malawians.
In a statement, Peshi highlighted that Malawi is facing severe financial strains, including a shortage of foreign exchange, which has led to ongoing fuel shortages. Additionally, he pointed to the government’s struggle to provide essential goods like fertilizer and maize, leaving many Malawian families without necessary resources for food security.
“As a group advocating for freedom, economic stability, and transparency, we believe Malawi is not in a position to allocate K2.7 billion for constructing a mausoleum in honor of our heroes,” Peshi said. “The Malawi Congress Party administration is grappling with significant challenges, and spending on this scale does not align with the urgent needs of Malawians.”
The Ministry of Local Government, Unity and Culture recently announced its intent to award the contract to PMC Limited to build the mausoleum in Nsanje District, acknowledging Chakuamba’s contributions to Malawian politics. Chakuamba, who passed away in 2016, held various cabinet roles and led the Mgwirizano Coalition in 2004.
While the government maintains that the project honors Chakuamba’s legacy, the EFM argues that alternative ways to commemorate him should be considered, ones that would not strain the nation’s limited resources.
Current Mausoleum for Late Chakuamba
NPL
