Last week, opposition parliamentarians took turns criticising President Lazarus Chakwera’s State of the Nation Address for questionable achievements, including projects that are either non-existent or incomplete on the ground. Our Staff Writer JAMES CHAVULA takes four questions to political scientist Dr Nandini Patel. Excerpts:
Q: What does the Sona under scrutiny say about the President and the government machinery?
A: The Sona is a tool to connect people and the government so that the people can learn about the government’s goals, plans and prospects for the nation. The Sona delivered by the State President on February 14 shows a disconnect between the people and the President, between reality on the ground and perception at the top. The President only sees what his coterie shows him, which is dangerous for a nation.
Q:Can the people surrounding the President be blamed for this disparity between reality on the ground and what the President presented?
A: The Head of State must take responsibility for what he says and does. The buck stops at the leadership. He must take credit for good work and accept failure for poor performance. If he allows himself to be swayed by a handful of people, he is not a leader of the people. The latest Sona lacks objectivity. Many voices across the country cast doubts on things the government claims to have done or completed, but they do not even exist. This is a grave matter.
Q:What are the consequences of this on the Presidency and public trust on which his position hinges?
A:It dampens public confidence and trust in the President and the government. It can give a sense of despair and frustration that the President is not empathetic with the people.
Q:Are there ways Malawians can hold the President accountable for the Sona’s content?
A: Yes. The discussion in Parliament is one of them. Members of Parliament must ask questions and seek clarification on specific points that have raised public doubts and concerns. If there is misinformation or disinformation, remedial action should be taken immediately.
