MPC to cut post office box charges

The Malawi Posts Corporation (MPC) has proposed to government to reduce personal post office box charges from K20 000 (about $80) to K5 000 (about $10), The Nation has learnt.

In June, MPC increased the charges by 1 000 percent, a development postmaster general Andrew Kumbatira claimed would enable the parastatal to carry out its duties effectively.

But in an interview this week, Kumbatira dismissed reports that MPC is acting out of pressure from their customers.

“There is no pressure from our customers, but we just want to help Malawians to use the post office boxes at a minimal charge,” said Kumbatira.

When MPC increased the charges, some surrendered the boxes back to the organisation, describing the new charges as exorbitant.

“I surrendered my box because I could no longer afford it. If they reduce I may rescind my decision,” said Blantyre-based businessperson John Ghenti.

Minister of Information and Civic Education Moses Kunkuyu said government agreed to reduce the boxes because communication is vital.