Thousands protested in Malawi against rising prices and inflation, calling for President Chakwera’s resignation. Basic goods’ prices, particularly maize, have surged due to a foreign currency shortage. The Ministry of Trade revoked business licenses for second-hand clothes vendors in response to the protests. Opposition politicians highlighted the urgency of addressing inflation, as poverty impacts the majority of the population.
On Tuesday, thousands of protesters in Malawi rallied at the parliament building, marking one of the largest demonstrations in years due to escalating prices. Many participants are vendors from Lilongwe’s largest flea market who are voicing their discontent with government policies. They chanted anti-government slogans and demanded the resignation of President Lazarus Chakwera, highlighting widespread frustrations over the rising costs of essential goods.
The surge in prices, particularly for staple commodities such as maize, has emerged from an acute foreign currency shortage, which has also severely impacted fuel availability. Reports indicate that maize prices soared by 21% in January, straining local vendors who struggle to pay their foreign suppliers. Protesters expressed that pricing fluctuations, sometimes occurring multiple times daily, have made their businesses increasingly unsustainable.
To exacerbate challenges for vendors, some now turn to the black market for currency, where exchange rates can be astronomically high. “We have turned to the black market where the dollar is selling at more than three times the normal price,” stated Mohammad Latif, a wholesaler of second-hand goods. The Malawi Ministry of Trade responded to the protests by revoking business licenses for second-hand clothing vendors, demanding they reapply and warning of legal action for non-compliance.
Political opposition figures joined the protest, emphasizing the urgent need for government attention towards rising inflation. Sameer Suleiman, an MP from the opposition Democratic Progressive Party, expressed concern over the escalating economic situation, stating, “How does government expect us to survive?” Nearly 75% of Malawi’s population lives in extreme poverty, according to the World Bank, which adds pressure on the incumbent government’s policies as elections approach in September, where Chakwera seeks re-election.
The protests in Malawi reflect growing discontent over soaring living costs and government inaction amid economic strife. With a significant portion of the population living in poverty, the government’s handling of inflation and foreign currency shortages will be critical issues in the upcoming elections. Furthermore, the response from the Ministry of Trade adds another layer to the ongoing economic challenges facing vendors and ordinary citizens alike.
Original Source: www.jacarandafm.com
