Despite the invitation from University of Malawi to President Peter Mutharika to preside over graduation ceremony on Wednesday the President turned it down without any formal communication.

The invitation letter that dated August 4, 2016 and signed by Unima spokesperson Peter Mitunda depicted that Mutharika would preside over the ceremony.

“University of Malawi will hold a graduation ceremony on Wednesday 10th August, 2016 which will be presided over by the Chancellor of the University of Malawi Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika. The ceremony will take place at the Great Hall, Chancellor College from 8:00 am,” reads part of the letter.

In an interview yesterday, State House Press Secretary, Mgeme Kalilani, seemed to be unaware of development said there was no any communication from the State House to the public on Mutharika attending the graduation ceremony in Zomba.

“So, it would be appropriate for you to go back to the university and ask them for more information on that. It is them who are better placed to clarify on the information on that letter,” Kalilani said.

However, it is likely that these current demonstrations by students against a government decision to hike university fees could make president to stay away from chairing the ceremony.

It was then Vice Chancellor, John Saka who presided over the ceremony