Malawi's Parliament adjourned sine die on Friday, concluding a five-week session marked by intense debate and partisan disagreements over the country's economic trajectory. Lawmakers are scheduled to return in February for the national budget session.
Leader of the Opposition, Simplex Chithyola Banda, used his closing remarks to question the government's economic management, noting that several concerns he raised following President Peter Mutharika's State of the Nation Address remain unresolved.
Chithyola highlighted the lack of a clear recovery plan, delays in the distribution of farm inputs, the partial rollback of secondary school fees, and allegations of politically motivated arrests as pressing issues. He suggested that Malawians were still waiting for "a signal" that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government intends to implement meaningful reforms.
He also criticised new taxation measures, including a 40 percent corporate tax and levies on betting, arguing that these policies burden public servants and stifle business growth. Chithyola called on the Ministry of Finance to enhance civic education to address growing public concern.
Agriculture emerged as a focal point in his critique. He warned that delayed fertiliser and input distribution, coinciding with the rainy season, could undermine the planting season and heighten the risk of future food shortages. He stressed that Malawi could achieve regional food security only if farmers receive adequate support rather than relying heavily on maize imports.
Chithyola issued a pointed warning to the governing party, asserting that unless the DPP achieves tangible development results within its current five-year mandate, Malawians would "look for another government in 2030."
Responding on behalf of the government, Leader of the House, Jappie Mhango, described the session as "exceptional" and commended MPs for engaging in mature debate, passing key bills, and aligning broadly with the President's agenda.
Mhango acknowledged the gravity of Malawi's economic situation, citing a multi-trillion kwacha debt and an economy "on a deathbed." He assured citizens that President Mutharika and the Ministry of Finance are working "tirelessly" to stabilise the economy. He also encouraged greater parliamentary attendance in future sessions.
The five-week meeting, the inaugural session of the 52nd Parliament since the 16 September 2025 General Election, included a wide range of parliamentary activities. These encompassed the State Opening by President Mutharika, orientation for new MPs, maiden speeches, and ministerial statements covering agriculture, education, infrastructure, energy, gender, and social welfare.
Legislative work saw the Mid-Year Budget Review debated and approved, alongside the passage of supplementary appropriation bills, loan authorizations for road rehabilitation and water projects, tax amendments, and a Private Member's Constitutional Amendment Bill.
Speaker Sameer Suleman commended MPs for maintaining decorum while urging improved attendance in future sessions, marking the adjournment as a productive start for the 52nd Parliament.
