Greed destroying democracy in Malawi
When Malawians achieved their hard-won democracy in 1993, people in the country were pleased that, finally, freedom had come. Among many freedoms, there is freedom of expression, which also leads to freedom of choice. Having freedom of expression, naturally, people thought that time had come for them to freely comment and check their government to bring positive change whenever possible.
Now, 25 years in a democracy, it has been proved that freedom of expression is easier said than done. When people check their government’s performance, the government leadership chooses not to listen. This is frustrating, especially when people want to address the Head of State about the shortfalls in his administration. Since freedom of expression is a two-way process and for it to remain relevant there is need for someone out there to be ready to listen and respond.
In a democracy, Malawians were obviously looking forward to a better life than was the case during the dictatorship. The main reason behind this expectation was obvious. Everyone thought the President and his/her government were to have lots of advice from the citizenry who would also provide checks and balances. Unfortunately, this has turned out to be a wishful thought. The President and his Cabinet are impervious to any outside suggestions, even if they see that their government is failing.
The Peter Mutharika regime is a typical example. The spirit of democracy is really being destroyed. The recent developments in the ruling DPP about leadership choices leaves a lot to be desired. The party is being divided after former first lady Callista Mutharika suggested that it would be better for Vice-President Saulos Chilima, who is young and energetic, to lead DPP in 2019 elections. Reading between the lines, Callista might have spoken for many people in DPP, especially the youth, some of whom have stuck their necks out in support of Chilima.
Meanwhile, it is mostly the old guard who are in support of President Peter Mutharika, to the extent of pronouncing that no one will be allowed to compete with him at the convention. This support does not necessarily mean that Mutharika has been a star performer, but the supporters have personally benefited from this leadership. Therefore, they think that if, hypothetically, Chilima or someone else takes over power, they will also lose out as they will likely not be in any position in the new government.
Meanwhile, the tag-of-war between Mutharika and Chilima supporters is dividing the party. This infighting has shown weaknesses in democracy. This is even more so with people who say Mutharika should go unopposed. What are they afraid of if they know that Mutharika will be victorious? It is more democratic to give other people a chance, especially young men and women. The President usually talks about empowering young people. Then, it does not make sense that Chilima is being denied a chance. Should people take youth empowerment as just a talk show at the political podium?
It cannot be emphasised enough that DPP, as a ruling party, should be exemplary. But what is seen now is that power greed seems to be destroying the party, which has found democracy a hard nut to crack. President Mutharika should realise that due to having a failed government there is fear that if he wins again with the same policies, Malawi will be completely finished as if it has gone through a devastating war. This is the silent fear by most Malawians who fought hard to bring democracy into the country. Please greedy politicians, give Malawians a break. Malawi is not a dictatorship.
