Malawi President Chakwera answers questions in Parliament

Malawi-Malawi President Lazarus Chakwera on Tuesday responded to various questions in Parliament from members of Parliament (MPs).

Among the questions, the President was asked about reducing his powers in appointing the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) director general, his government's plans to expedite the Mega Farms program, the late delivery of farm inputs, the status of Mangochi Airport, and plans to prevent the loss of the fight against corruption.

Regarding reducing his powers in appointing the ACB director general, Chakwera said that changing the law is a process that requires the involvement of Parliament.

On the Mega Farms Program, the President said that land is being identified for implementation, and the Ministry of Agriculture is working with the Ministry of Finance to ensure its implementation.

In response to a question about the late delivery of farm inputs, Chakwera said that his administration will ensure the timely procurement and delivery of inputs and fertilizers for farmers under the Affordable Inputs Program.

Regarding the status of Mangochi Airport, the president said that the government recognizes its importance in boosting tourism, and that financing is awaited.

He added that if financing is identified sooner, the project will be done together with work on the other airports.

On preventing the loss of the fight against corruption, Chakwera said that the government remains committed to the fight against corruption and is strengthening the capacity of institutions crucial in the fight.

He mentioned the ACB, the Directorate of Public Officers Declaration, and the office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) as institutions being strengthened, adding that the establishment of the Financial Crimes Court is another step taken to fight corruption.

The president's responses were given in Parliament in response to questions from MPs, including Machinga East Member of Parliament Esther Jolobala, Ntchisi South MP Ulemu Chilapondwa, Ntcheu Bwanje MP Mwisho Chilikumtima, and Zomba Lisanjala MP William Susuwele Banda, among others.