The Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) has moved to shut down claims that President Arthur Peter Mutharika failed to chair last week’s Cabinet meeting after the allegations spread rapidly across social media.
The reports became a major talking point online, fuelling questions about Mutharika’s visibility and direct involvement in government business amid growing speculation about his health and public appearances.
However, in a statement signed by Chief Secretary to the Government Justin Saidi, the OPC dismissed the claims as false and misleading, insisting that the President has personally chaired every Cabinet meeting since taking office.
“The President personally convenes and chairs Cabinet meetings in accordance with his constitutional mandate and responsibilities,” reads part of the statement.
According to the OPC, Mutharika has presided over every Cabinet meeting since assuming office on September 16, 2025.
The office further accused those behind the reports of deliberately attempting to mislead the public and undermine confidence in the presidency.
The statement also addressed questions surrounding the President’s decision to delegate some officials to represent him at various state functions.
According to the OPC, the Constitution allows the President to assign such duties when necessary and that such decisions are guided by efficiency, relevance and the government’s austerity measures aimed at reducing public expenditure.
“His Excellency delegates representation to the most relevant and appropriate official, taking into account the nature and objectives of the particular function,” the statement explained.
However, while the OPC has moved to dismiss the rumours, the fact that the presidency found it necessary to issue a public denial has itself sparked discussion in political circles.
Speculation about Mutharika’s health and public activities has circulated widely in recent months, with critics and supporters alike questioning his visibility at some public events.
The Malawian leader recently addressed some of those concerns during his arrival in Lilongwe from Blantyre, where he brushed aside suggestions that he was unwell.
Key facts
- Claim: Mutharika allegedly missed last week’s Cabinet meeting
- Response: OPC says the claim is false
- Statement: Signed by Chief Secretary Justin Saidi
- OPC position: Mutharika has chaired every Cabinet meeting since taking office
- Issue: Social media speculation over presidential visibility
- Government view: Claims were intended to mislead the public
