Political impasse weighing on Malawi’s economy – Expert

by Bester Kayaye

Malawi Polytechnic based economic expert Dr. Betchani Tcheleni says the current political impasse in the country following last year’s disputed presidential elections is negatively impacting on business operations and weighing on the country’s economy.

Tcheleni expressed his sentiments following reports that President Peter Mutharika has refused to assent to amended electoral bills, and has denied to fire MEC commissioners as proposed by the Public Appointments Committee of parliament.

Presidential Press Secretary Mgeme Kalirani announced at a Press Conference in Blantyre that the President did not assent to the bills because the legislature usurped its powers in passing bills that are not in line with the constitution.

Tcheleni, however, said Mutharika’s decision has a knock on effect on business operations as the opposition and some civil society groups are likely to stage nationwide protests.

He said: ” The stand made by the president will have some constraints to the economy depending on the feedback it will get from the opposition.”

“Mass demonstrations have always created an uncertain business environment forcing foreign and local investors to suspend their operations in the country.”

He said after the constitutional court pronounced its judgement on the electoral case, businesses anticipated a stable environment but currently the future remains blurred as political predicaments keep on unfolding.

During last year’s demonstrations, which were organized by a civil society grouping the Human Rights Defenders Coalition to demand the resignation or axing of Jane Ansah as Chairperson of Malawi Electoral Commission, almost 25 victims mainly SMEs filed claims in court for a total of K546-Million they lost during the demonstrations.