PAC says no to federalism in Malawi

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Fr. Peter Mulomole

A report by Public Affairs Committee (PAC) has swept aside calls to adopt a federal system of government in Malawi and says that the country is not ready for a change in political system.

In the aftermath of the 2014 tripartite general elections, some segments of the Malawian society began to call for the adoption of federalism.

Dominant narratives showed that the call was, in part, motivated by strong perceptions of political and economic exclusion and inequalities among the regions of the country.

Fr. Peter Mulomole
Fr. Peter Mulomole; Malawi seems not ready for federalism. .

Reacting to the calls, PAC convened one national and three regional consultative conferences aimed at uncovering the fundamental issues behind the calls for federalism and inclusivity in the country.

According to a report that PAC has released following the conferences, a total of 169 issues were independently identified by 14 groups of delegates.

The consultation found that there are nine priority concerns that cause discontent, discomfort, disappointment and despair among Malawians in relation to the county’s political system.

However, the report has found the calls to be misplaced and premature and has shown that the unitary system Malawi currently uses can meet the needs of Malawians.

Speaking to Malawi24, PAC publicity secretary, Father Peter Mulomole, said the report shows the country is not ready for federalism.

“People are suggesting that the unitary system can work and can satisfy people’s needs if we allow citizen participation and improve the current system,” said Mulomole. Mulomole further said the report has recommended that government should take due cognizance of the issues that cause discomfort, discontent, and despair among Malawians as they clearly constitute a recipe for federalisation calls and are genuine concerns that require attention and redress by authorities.