Amid rising misinformation on social media, Malawi President Peter Mutharika has broken his silence on rumours about his health, assuring the nation that he is well and warning that wishing him, or anyone, dead is dangerous and inhumane, stressing that no one knows who will die first.
Speaking in an interview with Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) Director General, Brian Banda, President Mutharika dismissed claims that he had been flown to South Africa for medical treatment, describing the reports as false and unnecessary.
He also expressed concern over the growing culture of circulating unverified information, particularly when it touches on someone’s life or wellbeing.
“I feel sorry for these people. They have been saying this since 2016, you remember? One time I died in America, you remember? I must be a cat with nine lives. So now it’s silly. Actually, I’m in good health. You know, so many people have wished me dead, many of them in this country.
“I remember T.B. Joshua said I was going to be dead by December 2016. I’m still here. I think he’s six feet under the ground himself. So never wish somebody dead. You never know who’s going to die first. But I’m fine,” said Mutharika. Mutharika emphasized that while public interest in leaders is understandable, it should not turn into harmful speculation that undermines dignity and truth.
Turning to governance, the President said his focus remains on fixing the country’s economic and social challenges, including stabilising the economy, and improving public services that directly affect ordinary Malawians.
“We have the situation in the Middle East, which is affecting every country in the world because of what’s happening there. So we are no exception, but we are doing our best. There is fuel now here, and there will be fuel for the foreseeable future, and we are doing our best.
“We are doing our best. We are building the economy, and there will be Forex here, and the economy will continue to grow. I can assure you that. I never say what I don’t mean,” he added.
In conclusion, President Mutharika urged Banda to transform the MBC into a more professional and credible institution, expressing optimism that under his leadership, the broadcaster will rise to meet the expectations of Malawians.
