Minister of Energy Jean Mathanga has alleged sabotage and political interference by some employees at the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (Escom) as some of the factors leading to persistent outages.
The minister asked those unwilling to serve professionally to leave Escom.
Mathanga made the call on Friday in Lilongwe during the launch of Escom’s motorcycle fleet.
She said her ministry continues to receive complaints that some technicians are failing to perform their duties professionally, allegedly because of their political affiliations or dissatisfaction with the current government.
“Some are being used by what I would call enemies of development. I want to be specific: some politicians are using you. This is unnecessary. You are professionals and you should not compromise your careers for political interests,” said Mathanga.
The minister’s sentiments come against the backdrop of persistent electricity blackouts that has left Malawi struggling to meet national demand.
Mathanga said the ministry is also concerned about the conduct of some Escom employees, particularly allegations that political differences are affecting their commitment to work.
In his remarks on arrival from his fifth private visit to South Africa on October 31 2026, President Peter Mutharika also blamed some of the country’s electricity supply problems on alleged sabotage, warning that those responsible would be held accountable.
Both Mutharika and Mathanga have pledged to end the persistent blackouts by December.
However, in an earlier interview on Nation Online’s programme No Excuses, Mathanga said government was expecting critical machine spare parts to arrive in the country to facilitate repairs and improve electricity generation.
According to Electricity Generation Company Limited, the country is generating about 370 megawatts (MW) against demand exceeding 450MW, leaving a deficit of at least 80MW.
The installed capacity comprises 401MW from hydropower, 51MW from diesel generators and 111MW from solar.
More than 80 percent of the country’s electricity is generated from power stations along the Shire River, including Nkula, Tedzani and Kapichira.
