Minister of Finance Simplex Chithyola-Banda on Wednesday presented the mid-year budget in Parliament. Coming on the heels of difficult times Malawians are facing, expectations were high as many hoped the minister would outline measures to ease the economic hardships burdening the population, including the lack of foreign exchange, fuel crisis, hunger and high debt burden.
In his opening remarks, Chithyola-Banda referred to it as an austerity budget, raising hopes that the government leadership would finally heed calls to curb unnecessary expenditures. This anticipation was particularly poignant as the presentation occurred while many Malawians queued at filling stations trying to obtain fuel.
However, as has become routine for this government, disappointment followed. Chithyola’s speech was lackluster and lacked enthusiasm. He glossed over issues that warranted deeper discussion, deferring others for a future date. This reflects the lack of seriousness by the government.
A budget labelled ‘austerity’ included no actual measures. Even a layperson would recognise Chithyola’s so-called austerity budget is merely an excuse for the government to continue spending recklessly.
This situation is unsurprising. For example, during a recent national address, many Malawians expected President Lazarus Chakwera to strongly condemn political violence, reassure those sleeping at fuel stations and provide hope to those going to bed hungry. Instead, his speech was filled with excuses and failed to address serious issues.
This isn’t the first time the notion of austerity has been proclaimed. Yet, each time it is mentioned, the government backtracks on any proposed austerity measures within days and offers flimsy excuses for doing so.
Now is not the time for the government to engage in childish games. Malawians are enduring hardships imposed by indecisive and directionless leaders. Chithyola’s speech felt like a slap in the face to the people and such disregard will have consequences
