April 6 this year marked 14 years since Bingu wa Mutharika died while in office as president of this country. Our News Analyst EDWIN NYIRONGO talked to Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) secretary general Peter Mukhito on what the party makes of the anniversary. Excerpts:
How are DDP’s memories of Bingu?
The memories remain vivid because his leadership was not ordinary, but transformational. He touched the everyday life of many Malawians. From restoring food security to instilling discipline in public systems, his impact created lived experiences that people continue to remember. Leaders are remembered not by the years that pass, but by the difference they make to their country. And in that regard, Bingu’s legacy continues to speak for itself.
In your statement marking the 14th anniversary of his death, why have you described him as “an economist of discipline?
I am talking about his firm belief that economic success must be anchored in order, prudence and self-reliance. He resisted reckless spending, promoted fiscal responsibility and insisted on structured economic management. He understood that without discipline both in policy and implementation, no economy can grow sustainably. His approach was deliberate, firm, and always guided by long-term national interest.
What development projects do you remember Bingu for?
His administration delivered several landmark achievements that reshaped Malawi’s development trajectory. They include the Farm Input Subsidy Programme (Fisp), which restored national food security, major road infrastructure projects across the country, expansion of energy generation and rural electrification, development of Nsanje World Inland Port, construction of public institutions and improvement in service delivery systems. These were not just projects, they were strategic interventions aimed at repositioning Malawi for growth and self-sufficiency.
Bingu removed vendors from the streets, especially in Lilongwe, but they have returned there. How does this sit with his dreams?
The former president envisioned orderly cities governed by law, structure and dignity. The return of street-vending in undesignated areas is, indeed, a departure from that vision. However, it also reflects broader socio-economic pressures that require balanced solutions. The task before us is not merely enforcement, but creating sustainable alternatives—structured markets, economic opportunities and inclusive planning; so that order and livelihoods can co-exist.
Bingu’s Mausoleum, popularly known as Mpumulo wa Bata at Ndata in Thyolo is said to be in bad shape. What is happening?
Mpumulo wa Bata is not just a Bingu’s final resting place, it is a national symbol of leadership and legacy. Any concerns regarding its condition are taken seriously. There is a moral and national obligation to preserve it with dignity befitting a former head of State. Appropriate consultations and interventions are expected to ensure that the site reflects the honour and respect due to him.
Some quarters claim that Bingu’s zero deficit budget did not work for the country?
The zero-deficit budget must be understood within its context. It was a bold attempt to promote fiscal discipline and reduce dependency on external aid. While it presented short-term challenges, its underlying principle was sound—that Malawi must live within its means. Like any major policy reform, it had both strengths and limitations, but it demonstrated l eader s h i p that was willing to take difficult decisions in pursuit of long-term economic sovereignty.
Why was there confusion over the date Bingu died in April 2012? There was mention April 5th 6th, 7th and 8th, but in your statement the date is April 6th. What is the story really?
The confusion around dates largely arises from the sequence of events between the time of passing and official confirmation. However, the most widely recognised and officially-accepted date is April 5 2012, which marks the day Malawi lost its sitting p r e s i d e n t . What remains i m p o r t ant is not the discrepancy in dates, but the enduring respect for his life and service.
Bingu w a s famous for r e f u s i n g to devalue the kwacha d e s p i t e international pressure. What economic sense did his stand make?
His position on currency devaluation was rooted in p r o te c t i ng Malawians from immediate economic shocks, particularly rising cost of essential goods. While economic theory may support devaluation under certain conditions, he weighed this against its social impact. It was a decision that reflected his leadership style— cautious of external prescriptions and deeply attentive to the welfare of ordinary citizens. Whether one agrees or not, it was a decision made from conviction and responsibility.
He won the presidency while in UDF then dumped the party? What is DPP’s relationship with UDF?
Political transitions are often complex and shaped by evolving national interests. While history may record moments of disagreement, what remains essential today is mutual respect among political players. The focus must be on unity, democratic maturity and national progress. Relationships between parties should always be guided by the greater good of Malawi.
How should Malawians remember Bingu?
They should remember him as a decisive, visionary and disciplined leader—a man who believed in the potential of this nation and acted boldly to unlock it. He was a patriot who challenged complacency, demanded excellence and proved that Malawi could stand on its own feet. His life teaches us that leadership requires courage, conviction and a relentless commitment to national progress. “Yes, the dreamer is gone, but his dream lives on,” so says our current President Prof Arthur Peter Mutharika.
