By Twink Jones Gadama
A scathing open letter addressed to Chimwendo Banda and President Lazarus Chakwera has ignited a firestorm of controversy, questioning the legitimacy of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) government’s touted achievements. Leonard Mwanyongo, a concerned citizen, has boldly spoken out against the administration’s alleged corruption and lack of tangible progress.
Mwanyongo’s letter criticizes the MCP’s recent parade celebrating President Chakwera’s return from the United Nations General Assembly, labeling it a “lackluster display” and an attempt to divert attention from the government’s failures. He argues that the projects touted as successes are, in fact, hollow shells initiated by previous administrations or donor-driven programs.
The concerned citizen lists several projects that he claims are fraudulent, including,- Bridging Foundation Deal (2022): A bogus US$6.8 billion agreemen,- __Barkaat Foods Limited Scandal (2022): A fraudulent US$1 billion fertilizer deal,- __East Bridge Estates Fraud (2023): A US$250 million deal involving fraudulent sovereign guarantees and – __Nendongo Commercial Group Fertilizer Scam (2023): A US$170 million scandal
Mwanyongo emphasizes that these projects have not delivered real benefits to Malawians and instead serve to enrich MCP officials. He urges citizens to recognize the truth behind the government’s claims and demands accountability.
In contrast, Mwanyongo highlights genuine projects making a lasting impact on Malawians, initiated by previous administrations or donor organizations as Shire Valley Transformation Program (2018)- _Nkhatabay Water Supply Project (2019)- _Blantyre Water Project (2019)- _Mpatamanga Hydropower Project (2020) and – _Rural Electrification Program (Phase 8) (2019)
These initiatives demonstrate the progress achieved by previous administrations, which Mwanyongo argues is being falsely claimed by the MCP.
The open letter concludes with a call to action, urging Malawians to demand integrity, accountability, and genuine progress from their government. Mwanyongo’s words are likely to spark intense debate and scrutiny of the MCP’s actions.
As the country moves beyond September 2025, the legitimacy of the MCP’s claims will undoubtedly face rigorous examination.
The clock is ticking, and the consequences of corruption and dishonest practices may soon catch up with those responsible.
The question on every Malawian’s mind: will the MCP government heed the call for accountability, or will the truth continue to be overshadowed by political expediency?
