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NEWS HEADLINES
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| Airtel Malawi reduces tariffs |
Malawi misses on the top 100 universities in Africa
7/02/12 Lilongwe The 2012 report released by the World University International, indicates that Malawi is not among the top 100 universities on the continent. Previously, World University Web Ranking and Colleges in Africa, ranked Malawi on position 99. South Africa tops the list with Kenya on position 11, Namibia stands on number 14, while Zimbabwe and Zambia are on positions 36 and 37, respectively. The list also contains many universities and colleges, from east west and Africa. Reacting to the report, Education activists have called for the complete overhaul of the country’s tertiary education system, in order to restore its efficiency. National Coordinator of the Civil Society Education Coalition, Benedicto Kondowe notes that the academic freedom saga, which led to the closure of Chancellor College and the Malawi polytechnic for over seven months, may have significantly contributed to the regression. He has since appealed for increased political will, by government, in a bid to restore the country’s tertiary education system. ................................................................................................................................... The country’s problems need sober approach – Rev Chingota
6/02/12 Blantyre Members of the clergy are calling on Malawians to unite for prevalence of peace in the country.
.................................................................................................................. GOVT silent on Mzuzu youth centre construction
6/02/12 Blantyre Mzuzu Youth Association is worried by what it describes as government’s silence on the construction of a youth centre in the district.
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The CSO’s are very responsible - Rev Munthali
6/02/12 Lilongwe The Public Affairs Committee-PAC has trashed reports, that it is masterminding the move, to topple the ruling Democratic Progressive Party–DPP led government. In an interview with MIJ FM this morning, PAC’s Publicity Secretary, Reverend Maurice Munthali, described the president’s accusations as unfair claiming no civil society group is receiving donor money to overthrow his administration. The Malawi Leader used parliament as a forum to make his allegations. He emphasized that the organizations are conniving with external forces to accomplish their mission. President Bingu Wa Mutharika explains ........
However, Reverend Munthali argues the CSO’s are very responsible and reputable in manning the welfare of Malawians. He therefore can’t imagine that the CSO’s doing what the Head of State claimed. Reverend Maurice Munthali explains ........ ...................................................................................................................................
The country’s problems need sober approach – Rev Chingota
6/02/12 Blantyre Members of the clergy are calling on Malawians to unite for prevalence of peace in the country.
.................................................................................................................. GOVT silent on Mzuzu youth centre construction
6/02/12 Blantyre Mzuzu Youth Association is worried by what it describes as government’s silence on the construction of a youth centre in the district.
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Bingu defends zero deficit budget
3/02/12 Lilongwe President Bingu wa Mutharika has strongly defended the mid-year review performance of the heavily criticized zero deficit budget implemented by his government mid last year, describing it as a success towards real economic independence.
................................................................................................................................... Malawi should not host AU – former VP
3/02/12 Lilongwe Various sections of society continue piling pressure on the Malawi government not to allow hosting an African Union-AU summit this June.
Dr. Cassim Chilumpha explains........
.................................................................................................................. Special report on World Cancer day
3/02/12 Blantyre One of the diseases claiming thousands of lives in the country is Cancer.
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GOVT should be clear on tripartite elections – Duwa
1/02/12 Blantyre Electoral stakeholders in the country have asked government to be clear on a bill, which seeks to change the country’s electoral laws to provide for tripartite elections.
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Parliament should address high unemployment rate among the youth – Msowoya
2/02/12 Lilongwe The Malawi Human Rights Youth Network-MHRYN has challenged members of parliament to rise above party politics and move towards repealing all draconian laws, that have ended up worsening the country’s relationship with its traditional donors such as Britain
.................................................................................................................. Veteran journalist George Dambula dead
2/02/12 Lilongwe The Malawi media fraternity has been dealt with a blow following the passing of veteran journalist George Dambula.
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Minibus accident claims life of Adams family band member
1/02/12 Blantyre Details are continuing to emerge on the minibus accident that occurred in Blantyre this morning.
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UDF to unite – Mpasu
1/02/12 Lilongwe United Democratic Front-UDF Vice president Sam Mpasu has expressed optimism that the current squabbles rocking the former ruling party would soon normalize.
.................................................................................................................. Malawians to blame for deterioration of freedoms and rights – Chisinga
1/02/12 Zomba Political analysts have blamed the docile attitude by Malawians as a contributing factor to the deterioration of different freedoms and rights in the country.
Associate Professor Blessings Chinsinga explains........
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Malawi risk plunging into a final economic crisis
30/01/12 Lilongwe Malawi risk plunging into a final and terrible economic crisis, if the country continues facing industrial strikes.
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GOVT to table two bills in Parliament
31/01/12 Lilongwe Leader of government business in the National Assembly has announced that parliament will discuss two bills during the forthcoming 43rd session.
.................................................................................................................. NBM relocates to new headquarters
31/01/12 Blantyre National Bank of Malawi - NBM has hailed the relocation of its headquarters to its new 7.4 billion kwacha magnificent building.
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Malawi risk plunging into a final economic crisis
30/01/12 Lilongwe Malawi risk plunging into a final and terrible economic crisis, if the country continues facing industrial strikes.
................................................................................................................................... SA and Malawi Police working on paperwork to extradite Misozi Chanthunya
30/01/12 Lilongwe The Police are working with their South African counterparts to extradite fugitive Misozi Chanthunya who was arrested in Rustenburg, South Africa North West Province.
.................................................................................................................. TNM Super League season to end in style – Chalulu
27/01/12 Blantyre As the 2011, 2012 Tnm Super League comes to an end this Saturday, the sponsors of the league have set 10th February as a day for the prize presentation.
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Malawi has enough maize – GOVT
27/01/12 Lilongwe Government has challenged Malawians, not to panic, claiming it has enough stocks of maize, to cater for all vulnerable families, across the country. Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Kingsley Namakhwa, has down-played the food shortage reports, mainly from the Southern Region, in an interview with MIJ FM, this morning. Namakhwa admits that the staple food may not be available in all Agriculture Development and Marketing Corporation- ADMARC depots, but says government reserves have enough stocks. He also parries away fears, that the current rationing of maize in ADMARC depots, is a clear indication, that the commodity, is becoming scarce in the country. A snap survey by MIJ FM in various ADMARC depots across the country, revealed that most consumers, are only allowed to purchase 20 to 25 kilograms of maize, per household. Namakhwa said, this is a deliberate measure, to prevent other traders from accessing maize, with intentions of re-selling at exorbitant prices. Kingsley Namakhwa explains ........
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Nsonda's appointment at PP, political appeasement – Mbowela
27/01/12 Lilongwe Political commentators have labeled the recent appointment of Ken Nsonda as a deputy spokesperson for the Peoples’ Party – PP mere political appeasement. Nsonda, who served the former ruling, United Democratic Front- UDF since 1993, joined Joyce Banda’s PP two weeks ago. He dumped the UDF, that is currently marred, by leadership wrangles. Speaking in an interview with MIJ FM, one of the country’s political commentators, Noel Mbowela claimed the new appointment aims at appeasing the politician, who has largely been used by the UDF, to interact with the media. However, Mbowela stated this will not bear any fruits in the newly formed party. But in a separate interview, Nsonda described his appointment as a very positive development, and hopes this will help the PP, in its quest to ascend to power, in 2014. Ken Nsonda explains........
.................................................................................................................. TNM Super League season to end in style – Chalulu
27/01/12 Blantyre As the 2011, 2012 Tnm Super League comes to an end this Saturday, the sponsors of the league have set 10th February as a day for the prize presentation.
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42nd session of parliament to discuss new bills
27/01/12 Lilongwe Leader of the house in The National Assembly has revealed that all bills that failed to be discussed in the house in the 42nd session of parliament will not be re-tabled in the forth coming seating of parliament. Parliament resumes sitting on 3rd February in its 43rd session where president Bingu Wa Mutharika is expected to preside over the opening of the session with a state of the nation address. In an interview with MIJ FM, Leader of the House George Chaponda disclosed that all the bills that were not table in the last session will not be discussed again in the house. Chaponda said the house will discuss some new bill from the ministry of finance.
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Hunger crisis will not affect the Scaling up Nutrition Programme – Dr Shawa
27/01/12 Lilongwe Government is optimistic that the hunger crisis which has hit some parts of the country will not affect the Scaling up Nutrition programme, which aims at reducing malnutrition cases by providing food support to pregnant women and newly born babies. Among the districts affected are, Balaka, Phalombe, Nsanje, Chikhwawa and Chiradzulu. There have been growing fears that the hunger situation in these areas would negatively impact the programme. But speaking in an interview with MIJ FM, Principal Secretary for Nutrition and HIV/AIDS in the office of President and Cabinet Dr. Marry Shawa hinted that government will continue providing nutritious foods to expectant mothers and under five children. Alice Msangambe explains........
.................................................................................................................. TNM Super League season to end in style – Chalulu
27/01/12 Blantyre As the 2011, 2012 Tnm Super League comes to an end this Saturday, the sponsors of the league have set 10th February as a day for the prize presentation.
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MCTU threatens GOVT with an unspecified action over judiciary strike
26/01/12 Lilongwe Malawi Congress of Trade Union-MCTU has threatened to take an unspecified action if the Office of the President and Cabinet-OPC continues forcing the judiciary striking staff to resume their work.
................................................................................................................................... The meeting with Common Wealth secretary was fruitful – CSO
26/01/12 Lilongwe Leaders of the Civil Society Organizations are optimistic that meetings they held with the Commonwealth secretary general, Karmalesh Sharma, will bear positive fruits in the long run.
.................................................................................................................. Former Minister wins K250 000 in Airtel Kufewetsa Moyo Frenzy Promotion
26/01/12 Lilongwe Airtel Malawi has indicated that Kufewetsa Moyo Frenzy Promotion has improved lives of over four thousand Malawians.
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PAC predicts doom
24/01/12 Lilongwe The Public Affairs Committee – PAC says Malawi is destined for doom if challenges rocking the country are not addressed in the soonest possible time. Speaking at a news conference in Lilongwe today, PAC chairperson Reverend Macdonald Kadawati said some of the acts of violence happening in Malawi are as a result of deep rooted problems the country is going through. Anthony Masamba explains ........
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Jumbe calls for unity in the UDF
24/01/12 Zomba President of the former ruling United Democratic Front- UDF Friday Jumbe has asked both warring factions in the once mighty party to forget their differences and unite for the sake of positive progress.
.................................................................................................................. MLS petition GOVT on judiciary strike
23/01/12 Blantyre/ Lilongwe The Malawi Law Society has warned that it will mobilize Malawians to hold a public demonstration if government does not address the concerns of the judiciary support staff who are currently on strike.
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Tembo talks tough on MEC commissioners appointment
23/01/12 Lilongwe Leader of opposition John Tembo has demanded president Bingu Wa Mutharika to consult key electoral stakeholders and opposition political parties before appointing new commissioners of the Malawi Electoral Commission –MEC. An official statement from the OPC shows that the contracts of commissioners Brown Chimphamba, Ron Nkomba, Dick Mzumara, Mary Manyusa and Georgina Chikoko expired on the 18th of January 2012, whilst commissioner Oliver Mwenefumbo passed on in 2011 and Jean Nankwenya was posted to a diplomatic mission in the United States of America.
................................................................................................................................... Torrential rains will ease by tomorrow afternoon - Weather experts
23/01/12 Blantyre The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services - DCCMS has disclosed that the heavy torrential rains that have been pouring in many of the country’s southern region would ease by tomorrow afternoon. The down pour emanates from Tropical Cyclone FUNSO in the Indian Ocean.
................................................................................................................. MLS petition GOVT on judiciary strike
23/01/12 Blantyr/ Lilongwe The Malawi Law Society has warned that it will mobilize Malawians to hold a public demonstration if government does not address the concerns of the judiciary support staff who are currently on strike.
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Thousands of women staged a vigil to defend freedom of dressing
20/01/12 Blantyre Thousands of women including Vice President Joyce Banda have thronged the Multipurpose Hall in Blantyre where they are staging a vigil demonstration to defend their right to wear pairs of trousers and miniskirts.
Sbusiswe Gondwe explains........
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MCP brush off Kayembe and Gengwe
20/01/12 Lilongwe The Malawi Congress Party-MCP has advised members of parliament who dumped the party to concentrate on the affairs the parties they joined and must stop talking ill of it. Dowa West legislator Abele Kayembe and Dedza South West lawmaker, Sosten Gwengwe dumped MCP and joined the ruling Democratic Progressive party after failing to convince MCP’s leadership to give up power to the youths.
MCP has of late been experiencing leadership wrangles, with the youthful members pressing on party leader John Tembo to resign from his post paving way for the youngsters. Recently, the party suspended its secretary general, Chris Daza, who has expressed interest to contest against Tembo at the party’s convention.
.................................................................................................................. ADMARC depots empty
20/01/12 Special Report MIJ fm uncovers the increasing demand for maize which is slowly becoming scarce in the country’s ADMARC depots. Government has in recent times been making pronouncements that the staple food is in abundance in its storage facilities, and ironically, ADMARC has gone ahead to increase the prices of the maize. The question that people have been asking is why would the authorities increase the price of maize, when the commodity is readily available? MIJ fm’s S'busisiwe Gondwe visited several ADMARC depots where he found women, men and boys wait for days on end, to buy maize, which, ironically, was not in supply, and has compiled this report.
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Humanity is an effective way of restoring country's sanity – Dr Bandawe
19/01/12 Blantyre A renowned psychologist has challenged people across the country to bury off their frustrations and consider humanity as an effective way of restoring the country sanity.
Dr. Chiwoza Bandawe explains........
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Electricity Crisis! …GOVT turns to private sector for solutions
19/01/12 Lilongwe Persistent power-outages have forced the Malawi Government to engage private companies that will be producing extra power to complement that of the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi-ESCOM.
.................................................................................................................. Thindwa starts trials at Memolodi Sundowns in SA
19/01/12 Lilongwe Epac FC’s and current TNM super league top goal-scorer, Ishmael Thindwa has started his trials with the South African outfit, Mamelodi Sundowns.
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GOVT should ban importation of non-essential commodities – Kalua
18/01/12 Zomba Economic experts are calling on government to impose a ban on commercial firms and individuals that import non-essential commodities into the country for trade purposes. This, they believe, would help government revive Malawi’s forex reserves, which continue crippling the country’s social-economic development. In an interview with MIJ FM, a Zomba-based economist, Collen Kalua, said that some commercial firms are wasting a lot of forex on the importation of simple goods. He cited cereals, snacks and poultry products as some of the goods that can be produced locally. Kalua thinks this is why forex to import major essential commodities such as fuel and drugs is still in persistent shortages in Malawi. A recent report by the Petroleum Importers Limited-PIL indicate that the forex shortage enables the country to import only half the needed fuel per month. Malawi needs about 30 million litres of fuel per month. Collen Kalua explains........
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Police! Stop intimidation – MLS
18/01/12 Blantyre The Malawi Law Society-MLS has condemned the Malawi Police for what it calls intimidation on Malawians trying to exercise their constitutional rights and freedoms. MLS’s President, John Gift Mwakhwawa, follows the summoning of renowned lawyer, Ralph Kasambara, and seasoned politician, Humphreys Mvula, by the Southern region Police Commissioner Rodney Jose. The police allege that the two are planning to use the current judicial strike to promote their own agenda. But Mwakhwawa described the summoning as uncalled for and pure violations of human rights. John Gift Mwakhwawa explains........
.................................................................................................................. PAK Foundation students back in class
18/01/12 Mulanje Calm has returned at PAK Foundation in Mulanje where students held demonstrations yesterday. The students were demonstrating in anger over the failure by the director of the institution, Information Minister, Patricia Kaliati to provide essential learning materials such as text books and laboratory equipment. The students marched from Chonde, where the school is located, to Nkando in the district where the minister resides. One of the parents, whose daughter is studying at the school, said the students had been complaining of lack of essential materials for the past year. He however said the management has not been able to fix the problem. The parent, who did not want to be named for fear of reprisals, claimed that most of the teachers are not well-qualified to teach at a secondary school.
She blamed the students for not following proper channels to present their grievances, as they rushed to her, instead of directing their concerns to the headmaster of the institution. Patricia Kaliati explains........
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We are not under pressure – MRA
17/01/12 Blantyre The Malawi Revenue Authority-MRA has refuted claims that the Democratic Progressive Party-DPP-led government is pushing it to implement numerous systems of revenue collection to rescue the highly criticized 2011-2012 Zero Deficit National Budget.
................................................................................................................................... Bingu should admit failure – PPM
17/01/12 Lilongwe Officials of the People’s Progressive Movement-PPM are demanding a public admission of failure by President Bingu Wa Mutharika on the country’s economic crisis instead of pretending that all is well in Malawi.
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Bingu's minibus up in flames ...leaves 3 seriously injured
13/01/12 Blantyre President Bingu Wa Mutharika’s minibus registration number BP 2611 has left two mechanics and a technician with serious burns and are currently admitted at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre. Blantyre Police Assistant Public Relations Officer, Lameck Yona Thembachako, has confirmed the sad incident with MIJ FM. The mechanics, Steven Mlenga, 65 and Wineti Kandikole 42, met their fate yesterday. Bennie Mzungu, a technician aged 36 sustained severe burns at the back and on both hands. Thembachako said the minibus developed a fault that led into a spark and the three were called to rectify the problem. This caused the petrol pump to bust and the resultant fire caught the two mechanics. Mlenga hails from Waliyala Village in the area of Traditional Authority Mlumbe in Zomba while Kandikole comes from Kamonga Village T/A Kaphuka in Dedza. Mzungu is from Sangala Village T/A Kapichi in Thyolo................................................................................................................................... Court fails to hear a case involving five human rights activists
13/01/12 Lilongwe The Lilongwe resident Magistrates Court has today failed to proceed with hearing of a case in which five human rights activists are answering charges of holding an illegal demonstration in Lilongwe last year. The five, Habiba Osman of the Norwegian Church Aid, Ben Chiza Mkandawire, Billy Mayaya of the Church and Society at the Nkhoma Synod, Brian Nyasulu and Comfort Chitseko were arrested in October last year. They were picked on allegations that they held a demonstration outside a hotel in which COMESA heads of state and government were meeting. There are being charged with holding the demonstration which authorities say was illegal, and another of sedition, for carrying placards which claimed that president Bingu wa Mutharika was a dictator. The five were released on bail in November last year and the case was expected to resume today. However, the case has failed to proceed, following a sit-in, which is currently being held by the junior staff of the judiciary. Billy Mayaya, who is the programmes Manager for the Church and society at the Nkhoma Synod has confirmed this to MIJ fm’s Gloria Masanza. Billy Mayaya explains........
.................................................................................................................. Judicial strike affects justice delivery
13/01/12 Special Report Innocent Mphongolo is analyzing the impact of the on-going strike that is being staged by judiciary’s junior staff across the country. The sit in has seen all the court across the country closed for a fifth day today.
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UN mediated talks between GOVT and CSO resumes on 16 January 2012
12/01/12 Blantyre United Nations mediated talks between government and civil society organizations over the country’s deteriorating economy, have been shifted to Monday next week. Chairperson of the Presidential Dialogue and Contact Group-PDCG, Archbishop Dr. Bernard Malango has disclosed this in an interview with MIJ fm. The talks are being held to address concerns, which were raised by the civil society, during the 20th July, demonstrations. Some of the concerns include the forex and fuel shortages, the deteriorating human rights standards and the first lady Callista Mutharika’s salary. This is not the first time the talks have been postponed as concerns continue to grow, over the pace, at which the talks are taking. Recently, the civil society organizations hinted that if no tangible progress would be made on the dialogue, they would organize themselves and take to the streets in March this year. According to Malango, the talks have been postponed, because the UN envoy, Richard Dictus is not in the country. Archbishop Dr. Bernard Malango explains........
................................................................................................................................... Young Politicians against March demonstrations
12/01/12 Lilongwe Representatives of the Young Politicians Union-YPU have spoken against the idea by the civil society to hold another demonstration in March. YPU is an organisation which comprises of young politicians from various political parties in the country. Organisations calling for a national-wide demonstration include Council for Non-governmental Organizations in Malawi-CONGOMA, Human Rights Consultative Committee-HRCC, Malawi Human Rights Youth network–MHRYN and the Civil Society Education Coalition- CSEC. However, YPU's Publicity Secretary, Nyazimba Nthala, told MIJ fm, that demonstrations are a setback, to the country's development. Nthala has therefore asked the Civil Society to be patient, and fully participate in the dialogue. Nyazimba Nthalaexplains........
.................................................................................................................. GOVT distribute relief items to people affected by dry spell
11/01/12 Lilongwe Government says the exercise of distributing relief food to over two hundred thousand households who have been affected by a dry spell that has hit some parts of the country is going on smoothly.
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Phoya creates fresh divisions in the MCP barely a day after joining the party
11/01/12 Blantyre The announcement by Blantyre Rural East Legislator Henry Phoya that he has joined the Malawi Congress Party – MCP has already started creating fresh divisions in the once mighty party.
Meanwhile one of the country’s political scientists Dr Augustine Magolowondo says Blantyre Rural East parliamentarian Henry Phoya can face un- uphill task if he decides to compete for presidency in the Malawi Congress Party –MCP. Magolowondo’s comments come a day after Phoya announced that he has joined the once mighty MCP.
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MESN asks GOVT to formulate a policy on 2014 tripartite election
11/01/12 Lilongwe The Malawi Electoral Support Network-MESN has asked government to speed up the process of formulating a policy that would guarantee the holding of a tripartite election in 2014.
................................................................................................................. GOVT distribute relief items to people affected by dry spell
11/01/12 Lilongwe Government says the exercise of distributing relief food to over two hundred thousand households who have been affected by a dry spell that has hit some parts of the country is going on smoothly.
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ESCOM forced to uproot power lines on the Mozambican soil
10/01/12 Blantyre The Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi –ESCOM has succumbed to pressure from the Mozambican government’s order by uprooting power lines that were planted on the latter’s soil. ESCOM’s Public Relations Officer Kitty Chingota confirmed this in an interview with MIJ FM. The poles were planted around Thambani area in Mwanza district which borders Malawi and Mozambique. However Chingota said the exercise has no political influence adding that ESCOM unknowingly installed the Mozambican area during the time the power lines were being planted. Kitty Chingota explains........
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Clergy, politicians behind the deaths of 10 people during the July 20 demonstration in the north – Police
10/01/12 Mzuzu Police in Mzuzu have accused the CCAP synod of the Livingstonia and some politicians in the northern region of being behind the deaths of 10 people as well as the riots that were held on 20 July 2011. Speaking to the Presidential Commission of the Enquiry on the 20 July demonstration, Senior Assistant commissioner of the police in the region Isaac Maluwa mentioned Rev. Mezuwa Banda, Harry Mkandawire of Peoples Party-PP, Loveness Gondwe of NARC party and Enock Chihana of the Alliance For Democracy- AFORD that they commanded the gathering to start demonstrating though they were told that there was a court injunction. Senior Assistant Commissioner Maluwa told the commissioners that the police and the Mzuzu city assembly discussed well with the civil society groups on how to handle the demonstrations without lives being lost. Maluwa said the civil society groups were very cooperative and that is why Moses Mkandawire told the gathering to wait for their discussions with the city assembly and the police, after realizing of a court injunction restraining them to go further with the demonstrations. Maluwa however said the police were surprised to see Mkandawire high -jacking the responsibilities of the organizers by commanding people to start demonstrating after a prayer by Rev. Mezuwa Banda and that forced the police to interrupt the demonstrations which was aiming to petition to City council because it was against the law. He then admitted that CCAP synod of Livingstonia clergies were responsible for the deaths and riots in Mzuzu.
.................................................................................................................. Judiciary support staff on strike
9/01/12 Blantyre/ Lilongwe The Judiciary support members of staff are currently staging a national-wide strike in an effort to force government to implement their improved conditions of service approved by parliament in 2006.
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Bingu and Sata meet in South Africa
From left: Hon Patricia Kaliati, President Bingu and President Sata Pic: Courtesy of Zambia Post online 9/01/12
Zambia’s President Michael Sata and his Malawian counterpart Bingu wa Mutharika hugged and had a friendly chat during their first meeting since the former's deportation from Lilongwe in 2007.
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CAMA warns GOVT on devaluation
6/01/12 Blantyre Consumer’s rights body has urged government to tread carefully when disseminating information centering on the further devaluation of the Malawi Kwacha.
Kapito also stressed those issues to do with the devaluation of the country’s currency have put consumers in an awkward position.
.................................................................................................................. Judiciary support staff on strike
9/01/12 Blantyre/ Lilongwe The Judiciary support members of staff are currently staging a national-wide strike in an effort to force government to implement their improved conditions of service approved by parliament in 2006.
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MHRYN for government of national unity 9/01/12 Blantyre The Malawi Human Rights Youth network – MHRYN has asked government to swallow its pride and opt for the government of national unity or either call for a referendum alleging it has failed to man the country.
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15 MP's make a U-turn on quitting DPP 6/01/12 Blantyre Ruling Democratic Progressive Party-DPP members of parliament have distanced themselves from media reports that they were threatening to quit from the party.
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CAMA warns GOVT on devaluation
6/01/12 Blantyre Consumer’s rights body has urged government to tread carefully when disseminating information centering on the further devaluation of the Malawi Kwacha.
Kapito also stressed those issues to do with the devaluation of the country’s currency have put consumers in an awkward position.
.................................................................................................................. Vendors back in LL streets
6/01/12 Lilongwe Vendors are back in the streets along the Kamuzu procession road in the capital Lilongwe, regardless of a fracas that ensued between riot police and vendors, leaving several people injured and some shops looted over the disagreements of the locality of the traders yesterday. Sylvester Namiwa explains........
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Inter-denominational prayers shunned 6/01/12 Blantyre Government officials, key opposition figures and members of the Civil Society Organizations have shunned the Inter-denominational prayers which are currently underway at COMESA Hall in Blantyre.
The prayers are being held under the theme ‘Thank You Lord for taking us this far’.
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Vendors clash with police over street vending 5/01/12 Lilongwe Running battles between vendors and the police has ensured in Lilongwe. The vendors are angry that they are being removed from the streets, insisting they have clearance from government authorities, to ply their trade along the streets. However, the police also maintain the vendors should trade within the designated flea markets, which were constructed for that purpose. It is being reported, that the Malawi Army has been deployed to assist the police to calm the situation. Our reporters in the Capital say the angry vendors, who have been trading their wares, along the Malangalanga and Kamuzu Procession Roads, are smashing shops and vehicles. MIJ fm’s Sylvester Namiwa explains........
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MACRA to evaluate applications for new broadcasting licences
4/01/12 Blantyre Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority-MACRA has embarked on a process to review applications, for new broadcasting licences. This has been confirmed by MACRA’s Communications Manager, Zadziko Mankhambo. The process is a continuation from the last exercise, through which four radio and four television licenses were awarded last year. According to Mankhambo, the process of awarding licenses is done in phases, as such another set of applicants will be awarded with broadcasting licenses, sometime this year. However, Mankhambo could not explain how soon new applicants will know of their fate, saying the evaluation process is timeless. Zadziko Mankhambo explains........
.................................................................................................................. 15 parliamentarians resign from the ruling DPP
5/01/12 Lilongwe Reports reaching MIJ fm are indicating that 15 members of parliament from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party- DPP have resigned from the party. According to one of the Parliamentarians, the fifteen are expected to finalize their discussions on their plans, tomorrow. The parliamentarian, who asked not to be identified as yet, claimed the DPP, lacks democracy and does not tolerate dissenting views.
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Economist advises government to prioritize the Green Belt Initiative 3/03/12 Mzuzu Agriculture and economic experts have advised government to seriously start implementing the Green Belt Initiative, so as to revive the agriculture sector, which is slowly losing popularity. The sector continues to face challenges mainly due to erratic rains, which are threatening the future of the country’s economy, which is agro-based. Government introduced the initiative to supplement rain-fed agriculture, doe to the unreliability of rains. However, despite government allocating money to the initiative, little has taken place in the scheme. Speaking to MIJ fm, one of the country’s renowned agricultural experts, Harrison Kalua said government should start learning from countries, like Egypt and China, which are successfully implementing the initiative. According to Kalua, there is need for serious commitment from the top management, to enable farmers along the lake Shore and Lower Shire to participate.
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MACRA to evaluate applications for new broadcasting licences
4/02/12 Blantyre Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority-MACRA has embarked on a process to review applications, for new broadcasting licences. This has been confirmed by MACRA’s Communications Manager, Zadziko Mankhambo. The process is a continuation from the last exercise, through which four radio and four television licenses were awarded last year. According to Mankhambo, the process of awarding licenses is done in phases, as such another set of applicants will be awarded with broadcasting licenses, sometime this year. However, Mankhambo could not explain how soon new applicants will know of their fate, saying the evaluation process is timeless. Zadziko Mankhambo explains........
.................................................................................................................. Challenges affecting the fight against child trafficking
3/01/12 Special Report MIJ FM’s Innocent Mphongolo highlights challenges that have emerged, in the fight against child trafficking, due to lack of a proper piece of legislation.
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Economist advises government to prioritize the Green Belt Initiative 3/03/12 Mzuzu Agriculture and economic experts have advised government to seriously start implementing the Green Belt Initiative, so as to revive the agriculture sector, which is slowly losing popularity. The sector continues to face challenges mainly due to erratic rains, which are threatening the future of the country’s economy, which is agro-based. Government introduced the initiative to supplement rain-fed agriculture, doe to the unreliability of rains. However, despite government allocating money to the initiative, little has taken place in the scheme. Speaking to MIJ fm, one of the country’s renowned agricultural experts, Harrison Kalua said government should start learning from countries, like Egypt and China, which are successfully implementing the initiative. According to Kalua, there is need for serious commitment from the top management, to enable farmers along the lake Shore and Lower Shire to participate.
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Dialogue between NGO's and GOVT is a non-starter – Hajat
3/02/12 Blantyre Civil rights activists have argued that the current dialogue between non-governmental organisations and government is a non-starter as it will take a lot of time to bail Malawians out of the economic hardships they are facing. The remarks from Rafiq Hajat, executive director of the Institute for Policy Interaction-IPI comes when other members of the civil society are also complaining of the pace at which the dialogue is progressing. The two sides have been holding talks to find lasting solutions to the country’s economic, political and human rights challenges. The UN mediated dialogue was initiated by president Bingu wa Mutharika after the civil society planned to hold a vigil on 21st September last year, to force government to act swiftly on the problems. However four months down the line, only three issues have been addressed, out of 20-points, which were listed in a petition presented to government by the civil society during the 20th July demonstration. Some of the major areas that are yet to be addressed are the critical shortages of fuel and forex and essential drugs in the country’s hospitals. But in an interview with MIJ fm, Hajat says Malawians need swift interventions, to end their miseries, as opposed to sticking to dialogue, that has no time frame. Rafiq Hajat explains........
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GOVT should not ignore advice – Tembo 27/12/11 Lilongwe The country’s opposition political parties have indicated that Malawi will continue sailing through unbearable social-political and economic challenges in the coming year unless the country’s leadership starts appreciating the role of constructive criticism.
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Bingu installs Senior Chief Tsabango
27/12/11 Lilongwe President Bingu Wa Mutharika presides over the installation of Senior Chief Tsabango in Lilongwe.
This is coming barely a day after some traditional leaders complained that politicians tend to abuse them. They claim some of their decisions are influenced by those in political positions
.................................................................................................................. Foreigners obtaining Malawi's passport
16/12/11 Special Report MIJ FM's Deus Sandram exposes how Malawians struggle to obtain Passports at the department of Immigration offices when foreigners can easily obtain them sometimes, with the help of immigration officials.
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Members should adhere to their parties constitutions – Dr Hussein 23/12/11 Zomba One of the country’s political analysts has appealed to political parties in the country to uphold the rule of law and allow democracy to settle in their groupings. The views expressed by Dr Mustapha Hussein, a political science and administrative studies lecturer at the Chancellor College in Zomba. His remarks come at a time when most of the country’s political parties are facing leadership wrangles, stemming from the failure to hold convention to legitimize their positions. The Malawi Congress Party-MCP has since last year been facing a rebellion from within its ranks and file, over John Tembo’s presidency, with some of the members calling for his removal. The former ruling United Democratic Front-UDF has also had its share of the problems since the party’s former chairman Dr Bakili Muluzi announced his exit from active politics. The party has been embroiled in leadership squabbles, as some of the party’s top members are not happy with if some of them are their leaders. This according to some analysts is not a healthy for democracy to flourish in political parties and the country as a whole. According to Dr Hussein, the failure by party members to adhere to their own constitutions is the major cause of all the problems that have arisen in political groupings. Dr Mustapha Hussein explains........
................................................................................................................................... UN mediated dialogue, to continue the second week of January
23/12/11 Lilongwe Representative of the Civil Society organisation in the UN-mediated dialogue have revealed that they will meet government officials, in the second week of January, after holding a consultative meetings, other members of the non-governmental organizations. Chairperson of council of non organisations of Malawi- CONGOM, Voice Mhone told MIJ FM, that they are trying to expedite the process, because they believe the dialogues, is moving at a slow pace. He said meanwhile, the representatives are doing some consultative meetings within the civil society fraternity. Voice Mhone explains........
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Former Veep spits fire on Muluzi 15/12/11 Lilongwe Former president Cassim Chilumpha has hit at Machinga North East parliamentarian Atupele Muluzi, over his decision to contest for the party’s presidency in the United Democratic Front-UDF. Muluzi announced two months ago, that he intends to contest for the party’s blessings to represent it in the 2014 general elections. His announcement has sparked debate, both within and outside the UDF, as others claim that the decision is not in line, with the party’s constitution, which provides that the party’s presidential candidate, shall be voted for, a year before the general elections. But in an interview with MIJ fm, Cassim Chilumpha, who is a founding member of the UDF, said time is not yet ripe for people in the party to start declaring their presidential aspirations, as the party needs to re-build its image first. In a thinly veiling accusation to Muluzi, Dr Chilumpha said Malawians cannot be talking about presidency at this time, when the UDF is going through various internal wrangles. Dr Cassim Chilumpha explains........
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GOVT advised to assist private Nursing training colleges
16/12/11 Lilongwe Health activists have sent a strong appeal to government, to assist nursing training colleges that are struggling to operate, due to financial limitations. The appeal comes from activist Dorothy Ngoma, Executive Director of the National Organization of Nurses and Midwives-NONM. The Nurses and Midwives Council of Malawi-NMCM, mandated to accredit all nursing and midwifery colleges in the country, has released names of colleges, that have been accredited. However, only twelve have been listed, while others colleges have not made it on the list of accredited colleges, having not met the criteria and standards set by the Nurses Council. But according to Ngoma, the institutions that have not been accredited, may be struggling financially. Ngoma said government should come in, to assist such institutions, that are failing to meet the set standards, because they are helping government to take care of its people. Dorothy Ngoma explains........
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Former Veep returns to the UDF bench
15/12/11 Lilongwe Former vice president Cassim Chilumpha has written to the Speaker of the National Assembly, informing him of his decision, to return to the former ruling United Democratic Front-UDF party. According to the letter, which has been signed by Dr Chilumpha, dated 14th November, 2011, the former Veep, says from now onwards, he will be representing Nkhota-kota South constituency, as a member of the UDF. Chilumpha won the seat as an independent candidate, having lost the party’s primaries to Fahad Assani, who represented the UDF, in the 2009 general elections. He has however been taking part in activities in the UDF, including the rebuilding exercise, which the party is currently undertaking ...................................................................................................................................
Irish Aid, Bunda, sign MOU on Nutrition training
15/12/11 Blantyre The Irish government, through the Irish Aid has signed a memorandum of understanding-MOU with Bunda College of Agriculture that will see the government providing technical support for special training on nutrition to the students at the college. The signing ceremony, which also included the department of HIV and Nutrition in the Office of the President and Cabinet-OPC, took place in Lilongwe this morning. In the project, the college, the OPC and the Irish government, will work together, to provide special training on nutrition to the students and other sections of society. MIJ fm’s Moses Mpukunya explains........
.................................................................................................................. Citizens should play a major role in decentralization program - Mussa
15/12/11 Lilongwe Government have stressed the need for citizens to take a major role in the implementation of development initiatives at local government level. The remarks have been made by minister of local government and rural development Henry Mussa. His comments come at a time when, government is implementing the decentralization program, which among other areas, gives citizens a greater role to play in the development of their areas, through their local assemblies. In the program, assemblies are managed by councilors, who consult with their people, on the type of developments, to be initiated in their respective wards. However, efforts to promote the decentralization program are being hampered by the lack of councilors, since the expiry of the tenure of the last set of councilors in 2005. Speaking to MIJ fm, Mussa said despite the absence of councilors, district councilors have to take a leading role in liaising with local people on development and other areas. According to Mussa, despite the absence of councilors, district commissioners and chief executive officers in town councils should strive to clear mistrust between them and their people, by involving them in financial accountability. Henry Mussa explains........
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Bunda students still boycotting classes
14/12/11 Lilongwe Bunda College of Agriculture students are still boycotting classes despite being sued for going on rampage last Friday.
................................................................................................................................... A new Miss Malawi to be crowned on December 23
National Lottery Group CEO Allen Cheng with the current Miss Malawi Faith Chibale 13/12/11 Blantyre 17 girls will battle out for this year’s Miss Malawi whose ultimate winner will represent the country at the Miss World Beauty contest.
.................................................................................................................. RBM in final stages of securing 200 million US Dollars from Islamic Bank of India to bail out Malawi from the fuel crisis
14/12/11 Lilongwe The Reserve Bank of Malawi-RBM says it is yet to receive a loan it was authorized by parliament to borrow from the Islamic Bank of India and PTA bank.
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ICC reports Malawi to the United Nations Security Council for failing to arrest Al-Bashir
13/12/11 Lilongwe The International Criminal Court-ICC has reported Malawi to both the United Nations Security Council and Assembly of States Parties to the Rome Statute, over its failure, to arrest and hand-over Sudanese President, Omar Al-Bashir to the court. The resolution was made yesterday, at a meeting of judges, that found Malawi at fault, for failing to co-operate with the court's request, to arrest Bashir, when he visited the country in October this year. In its response, the Malawi Government argued it could not arrest the Sudanese President, since it’s not a signatory to the ICC. MIJ fm's Christopher Nhlane explains........
Meanwhile member states of the International Criminal Court-ICC have elected Fatou Bensouda of Gambia, as its next chief prosecutor, in part, to counter perceptions in Africa, that it unfairly targets the continent. Bensouda, 50, will succeed the high-profile, Luis Moreno-Ocampo of Argentina, whose term of office, expires next June. She is currently his deputy. Bensouda was elected without a vote, at a meeting, in the United Nations of the 120-nation Assembly of States Parties to the ICC, which is based at The Hague in the Netherlands. She will serve a nine-year term starting June 16. Bensouda was named deputy prosecutor of the ICC in 2004, and previously worked as a legal adviser, and trial attorney, at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, in Arusha, Tanzania. ................................................................................................................................... GOVT is formulating a policy to reduce people’s vulnerability to natural disasters 13/12/11 Lilongwe Malawi government is yet to set up a national disaster management policy, years after the idea was introduced, to reduce people’s vulnerability, to risks of natural disasters. A few years ago, government expressed commitment to implement the policy, in order to mitigate the impact of natural tragedies, such as floods, which often occur in the rainy season, in the Lower Shire districts of Chikhwawa and Nsanje, and other low lying areas. Besides that, government has appealed to Malawians living in such areas, to relocate to upper lands, to avert problems that come with floods. However, some sections of society have accused the authorities, of taking a soft stand on the matter, adding that lack of a strict disaster management policy, is encouraging the people to continue living in flood-prone areas. Reacting to the concerns, Acting Commissioner of disaster Preparedness in the Department of Disaster Management Affairs, James Chiusiwa said authorities are still soliciting views, on how best to implement the policy. James Chiusiwa explains........
.................................................................................................................. Did parliament sitting met ordinary people's expectations?
12/12/11 Special Report MIJ FM’s Sylvester Namiwa takes stalk of what transpired during the just ended sitting of parliament. The report analyses whether or not the people’s expectations were met during the sitting.
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NO price increase on fuel – GOVT
12/12/11 Lilongwe By Innocent Mphongolo Authorities have dismissed fears that they are planning to increase prices of fuel. Rumors have been rife since last week, that government was planning to effect another increase, in the pump prices of fuel, the second time in almost one month. Motorists over the week had to endure four to five kilometer-long queues, to access fuel, which is currently in short supply. Commuters have also had their fair share of the crisis, as they have to cough more to pay for bus fares, as minibus fares have gone up since fuel prices were hike three weeks ago. However, in an interview with MIJ fm, Minister of Natural resources, Energy and the Environment, Goodall Gondwe, parried away the rumours, saying government has no intention to hike the fuel prices any time soon. Dr Goodall Gondwe explains........
................................................................................................................................... Bunda Students to meet GOVT over unpaid book allowances 12/12/11 Lilongwe By Jonna Pankuku Bunda College of Agriculture students are this afternoon scheduled to meet government, over issues surrounding their unpaid book allowances. President of the students’ union, Fraction Phwitiko, has confirmed the development in an interview with MIJ FM. The students are blaming the Malawi Savings Bank-MSB, for failing to start disbursing loans to them. They want government to consider changing the bank, claiming it has failed to honour the deal it signed. Phwitiko hopes the meeting will bear fruits, so that normal classes, resume at the college. Meanwhile, the frustrated students have closed Mitundu Road in Lilongwe as their vigil continues Fraction Phwitiko explains........
.................................................................................................................. Did parliament sitting met ordinary people's expectations?
12/12/11 Special Report MIJ FM’s Sylvester Namiwa takes stalk of what transpired during the just ended sitting of parliament. The report analyses whether or not the people’s expectations were met during the sitting.
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Parliament rises today after meeting for a month
9/12/11 Lilongwe Parliament rises this afternoon after conducting its business for a month. A number of issues including ministerial statements centering on various issues rocking the country have been discussed during the proceedings.
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Dry spell will not affect the country’s food production - GOVT 9/12/11 Lilongwe The Ministry of Agriculture and food security has strongly dispelled fears that the current dry spell being experienced in some parts of the southern region will have an adverse impact on the country’s food production next year. The statement comes barely a few days after the Meteorological Department also announcement that normal rains should be expected in the southern parts of the country in the next nine days. Some districts in the southern region like Blantyre, Chikhwawa, Balaka and Zomba are yet to experience reliable rains although many farmers in these areas have already planted their maize seeds for the 2011/2012 growing season. The prolonged dry spell has since put many farmers in the region under intense pressure amidst reports that some crops have started withering. Speaking in an interview with MIJ FM, Controller of Agriculture Extension and Technical Services in the ministry of agriculture and food security, Wilfred Lipita dismissed the fears, arguing that the current situation poses no serious threat on this year’s agricultural output. Wilfred Lipita explains........
.................................................................................................................. 47 villages in Chikhwawa District on hunger risk
9/12/11 Special Report MIJ fm is bringing to light, a sad tale of how forty-seven hunger-stricken villages in Chikhwawa District, are risking their lives, by eating poisonous wild fruits to survive in the so-called food-sufficient Malawi.
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High Court in Lilongwe grants Kalinde an injunction
7/12/11 Lilongwe Speaker of the National Assembly Henry Chimunthu Banda is on record to have fuelled a chaotic mood this morning when he sent out of the chamber Member of Parliament for Thyolo North, Anita Kalinde, arguing that he is yet to receive communication on the stay order from the Lilongwe High court regarding her 30 day sitting suspension. The development comes barely a day after the Lilongwe High Court overruled a parliamentary 30-day suspension verdict on Kalinde. However, opposition parliamentarians in the house expressed displeasure on how the speaker handled the issue, arguing that he was in contempt of court. MIJ FM’s Nellie kanyemba explains........
During a division vote, the majority of these legislators supported Kalinde’s suspension. But Executive Director for Women’s Lobby, Faustace Chirwa, said this contradicts the much-talked-about women in decision making positions.
Kalinde is believed to have manhandled the minister of Home affairs and internal security Aaron Sangala following a remark he had made in the house two weeks ago, about her late husband. ...................................................................................................................................
DPP Hands off! 7/12/11 Lilongwe Leaders of the civil society organizations have advised the ruling Democratic Progressive Party-DPP to absolutely stop interfering in the farm input subsidy programme. This is in reaction to a revelation by the DPP’s secretary general, Wakuda Kamanga that the party intends to give coupons to about seventy traditional leaders. Executive Director for Malawi Watch, Billy Banda, has accused the DPP of meddling into the affairs of government. Banda has since advised the DPP to take off its hands on works designed for the Ministry of Agriculture.
.................................................................................................................. Was it neccessary to integrate disability ministry into the gender and women development ministry?
5/12/11 Special Report MIJ fm analyses the impact of the absence of a ministry, responsible for people living with disabilities. The ministry was integrated into the gender and women development ministry, during the recent reshuffle of cabinet. The development came at a time, when the ministry was expected to table the disability bill, to improve the wellbeing of people living with disabilities in the country. In our special report, MIJ FM’s Grace Kantchentche investigates the challenges that people with disabilities are going through, in the absence of a line ministry
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High Court in Lilongwe grants Kalinde an injunction
7/12/11 Lilongwe The High Court in Lilongwe has granted the Thyolo North parliamentarian Anita Kalinde an injunction restraining parliament to go ahead with its decision of suspending her for 30 sitting days. Kalinde’s lawyer Wapona Kita told MIJ FM that the court through Judge Ivy Nkamanga has granted the legislator’s leave for judicial review as well as a stay of the decision made by parliament yesterday. Parliament suspended, for thirty sitting days, Kalinde, on allegations that she assaulted minister of defense Aaron Sangala. The suspension followed a heated debate that ensued in the house as members from both the government and opposition side could not agree on the way forward in handling the matter. Kalinde is believed to have manhandled the minister following a remark he had made in the house two weeks ago, about her late husband.
Chaponda argued Kalinde deserved the punishment claiming she was in the wrong for acting contrary to the way legislator needs to. Dr George Chaponda explains........
Former speaker of parliament Sam Mpasu has described the punishment given to Kalinde as extreme.
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DPP Hands off! 7/12/11 Lilongwe Leaders of the civil society organizations have advised the ruling Democratic Progressive Party-DPP to absolutely stop interfering in the farm input subsidy programme. This is in reaction to a revelation by the DPP’s secretary general, Wakuda Kamanga that the party intends to give coupons to about seventy traditional leaders. Executive Director for Malawi Watch, Billy Banda, has accused the DPP of meddling into the affairs of government. Banda has since advised the DPP to take off its hands on works designed for the Ministry of Agriculture.
.................................................................................................................. Was it neccessary to integrate disability ministry into the gender and women development ministry?
5/12/11 Special Report MIJ fm analyses the impact of the absence of a ministry, responsible for people living with disabilities. The ministry was integrated into the gender and women development ministry, during the recent reshuffle of cabinet. The development came at a time, when the ministry was expected to table the disability bill, to improve the wellbeing of people living with disabilities in the country. In our special report, MIJ FM’s Grace Kantchentche investigates the challenges that people with disabilities are going through, in the absence of a line ministry
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Parliament to debate on Kalinde, Sangala scuffle
6/12/11 Lilongwe Parliament has shifted to this afternoon the debate regarding the issue of Thyolo North legislator, Anita Kalinde and Defense Minister, Aaron Sangala, who had a scuffle a week ago to. Leader of the house George Chaponda moved the motion to have the issue debated at plenary. However, the opposition protested against the decision asking the speaker of the house Henry Chimunthu Banda to go into division. The commotion between the two ensued Thursday last week when the minister alleged that Kalinde’s late husband, Marshal the Dukes, was engaged in body parts business. Angered by the remarks, the legislator manhandled the minister in full view of the house and some people that had come to witness the deliberations. Anthony Masamba explains........
................................................................................................................................... Political commentators warn of hard times for the ruling DPP 6/12/11 Mzuzu Political commentators have warned the ruling Democratic Progressive Party- DPP to brace for more difficult times ahead as its parliamentarians continue defecting from its ranks and files. The development follows the recent announcement by a Zomba – Nsondole constituency parliamentarian Jennifer Chilunga who has defected to Joyce Banda’s Peoples Party – PP. Speaking in an interview with MIJ FM, Noel Mbowela, a political science lecturer at the Mzuzu University said the defection signifies that all is not well in the DPP. Noel Mbowela explains........
................................................................................................................. Was it neccessary to integrate disability ministry into the gender and women development ministry?
5/12/11 Special Report MIJ fm analyses the impact of the absence of a ministry, responsible for people living with disabilities. The ministry was integrated into the gender and women development ministry, during the recent reshuffle of cabinet. The development came at a time, when the ministry was expected to table the disability bill, to improve the wellbeing of people living with disabilities in the country. In our special report, MIJ FM’s Grace Kantchentche investigates the challenges that people with disabilities are going through, in the absence of a line ministry
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Bureaucracy by government departments delays the Occupy Parliament Movement’s vigil
5/12/11 Lilongwe The clerk of parliament has refused the Forum for the Defence of Democracy- FDD permission to hold the Occupy Parliament Movement’s vigil outside the parliament building. Spokesperson for the grouping Ben Chiza Mkandawire, however, told MIJ FM soon after their meeting with the clerk of parliament Matilda Katopola that the vigil can take place since the speaker of the National Assembly Henry Chimunthu Banda has stamped their letters of notification.
Earlier, Civil rights groups in the country warned the Malawi Government to tread carefully on how it handles the Occupy Parliament Movement’s vigil which was set to commence this morning in the capital, Lilongwe. The movement seeks to pressurize government to provide lasting solutions to numerous political, social and economic challenges facing Malawi. Presently, Malawi is going through hard economic times characterized by persistent power outages, forex and fuel crisis, drug shortages in public hospitals. Economists believe the situation is worsened by the country’s poor relations with donors and development partners. The vigil also intends to convey a message to members of parliament to beginning working for and not against people who ushered them into power.
................................................................................................................................... Kalinde, Sangala hearing continues today 5/12/11 Lilongwe Parliament is this afternoon expected to resume hearing an assault case, involving Defence Minister Aaron Sangala and Thyolo North Member of Parliament, Anita Kalinde. The business committee of the house last Thursday failed to reach a consensus on the matter. The two, who picked a quarrel, over remarks the minister had made about Kalinde’s former husband, appeared before the committee for discussions. Sangala is on record as having told the house, that Kalinde’s husband, late Marshal the Dukes, was involved in the sale of human body parts.
In turn, speaker of parliament, Henry Chimunthu Banda, left the matter to the house to decide the way forward, during which it was agreed, that an ad hoc committee be established to look into the matter. But Malawi Congress Party-MCP and the United Democratic Front-UDF protested to having five ruling Democratic Progressive Party-DPP members and three from the opposition in the committee. Henry Phoya, a lawyer and legislator argued the Speaker had the jurisdiction to rule on the incident.
.................................................................................................................. Was it neccessary to integrate disability ministry into the gender and women development ministry?
5/12/11 Special Report MIJ fm analyses the impact of the absence of a ministry, responsible for people living with disabilities. The ministry was integrated into the gender and women development ministry, during the recent reshuffle of cabinet. The development came at a time, when the ministry was expected to table the disability bill, to improve the wellbeing of people living with disabilities in the country. In our special report, MIJ FM’s Grace Kantchentche investigates the challenges that people with disabilities are going through, in the absence of a line ministry
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‘Spy Machine’ contravenes personal privacy – Opposition legislator
2/12/11 Lilongwe Opposition parliamentarians have faulted the implementation of the Consolidated ICT Regulatory Management Systems – CIRMS which the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority -MACRA wants to install in the country. The machine is aimed at monitoring the country’s phone operators who are deemed to be overcharging Malawians when rendering their services. Salima south legislator Uladi Mussa told the house that the CIRMS machine’s presence in the country contravene section 21 of republic constitution that provides for personal privacy. However government has defended the implementation of the machine saying it will improve revenue collection. Anthony Masamba explains........
................................................................................................................................... Corrupt practices derailing distribution of the farm input subsidy program - FUM 2/12/11 Lilongwe The Farmers union of Malawi – FUM has bemoaned corrupt practices that are derailing the smooth distribution of the farm input subsidy program in the country. FUM’s President, Felix Jumbe lamented this in an interview with MIJ. His remarks come after government admitted that there are some challenges in the distribution of the farm inputs, mainly fertilizer. Statistics have shown that each year the distribution of the farm inputs is marred with corruption cases. This year alone a number of officials involved in the distribution have been arrested in different depots across the country due to corruption allegations. They are allegedly said to have been asking beneficiaries to give an extra amount of money for the purchase of the products. Jumbe said reports from their inspectors deployed in various districts across the country indicate that there are still some irregularities marring the exercise. .
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GOVT commended for ministerial statements
1/12/11 Lilongwe Political analysts have described the increased number of ministerial statements made so far in parliament as a positive move arguing it is the duty of the ministers to clarify on a number of issues.
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The devastating effects that the HIV and AIDs pandemic has had on the country’s social economic development 1/12/11 Special Report 1st December was set aside with the aim of raising awareness on HIV/AIDS and to demonstrate international solidarity in the face of the pandemic.
.................................................................................................................. Malawian Journalist appointed as Southern Africa Journalists Association-SAJA
28/11/11 Harare The Journalists Union of Malawi-JUMA leader, Maganizo Fly Mazeze has been appointed president of the Southern Africa Journalists Association-SAJA.
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MBC boss rubbishes Atupele Muluzi’s pledge
30/11/11 Blantyre The Malawi Broadcasting Corporation-MBC’s Director General, Bright Malopa, has rubbished Machinga North East legislator’s pledge to create about 500 000 jobs for Malawian youths if he rises to presidency in 2014 general elections. The legislator, Atupele Muluzi, was speaking during a political rally he held in Kasungu last weekend. Atupele openly declared to contest for the United Democratic Front-UDF’s presidency in the elections despite strong resistance from the party’s senior members who accused him of flouting the party’s constitution.
Currently, Malawi is facing the forex and fuel crisis, perennial water problems, persistent power outages, frequent rise in the cost of living among other challenges. However, in his remarks during the 2011-Symposium for Malawi Polytechnic Journalism students in Blantyre, the MBC boss, who almost diverted the ceremony to Atupele, stressed that the UDF presidential aspirant should provide real solutions unlike making what he described as clatters that the country needs the youth for change.
................................................................................................................................... MCP strategising on modalities to win back electorates trust and confidence 30/11/11 Lilongwe The main Opposition Malawi Congress Party-MCP is still strategizing on modalities that can see it winning back trust and confidence of the electorate ahead of the 2014 presidential and parliamentary elections.
In an interview with MIJ FM, Daza said plans to restructure the party’s leadership are still fresh. Dr. Chris Daza explains.......
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RBM corrected irregularities in a contract between the Malawi GOVT and Paladin Mining Company from Australia
29/11/11 Lilongwe The country’s central Bank has revealed it has corrected some of the irregularities that were noted in a contract between the Malawi government and Paladin mining company from Australia.
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UDF supporters of Atupele Muluzi camp, allegedly beat up the party’s secretary general, Kennedy Makwangwala 29/11/11 Blantyre Rivalry between the existing two camps in the former ruling, United Democratic Front-UDF have reached crisis levels as supporters of Machinga North East legislator, Atupele Muluzi, allegedly beat up the party’s secretary general, Kennedy Makwangwala.
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223 million kilograms of tobacco sold, as the selling season closes
28/11/11 Lilongwe At least 223 million kilograms of tobacco have been sold in all the countries tobacco auction floors.
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MCTU warns of uncontrolled spate of strikes and sit-ins 28/11/11 Lilongwe Malawi Congress of Trade Unions-MCTU has warned of a spate of uncontrolled strikes and sit-ins across the country if the Malawi Government and other employers fail to engage workers with the current tension emanating from the worsening increased cost of living. Prices for basic commodities have been going up, a development local economists and consumer rights campaigners blame on the recent ten percent kwacha devaluation.
.................................................................................................................. Malawian Journalist appointed as Southern Africa Journalists Association-SAJA
28/11/11 Harare The Journalists Union of Malawi-JUMA leader, Maganizo Fly Mazeze has been appointed president of the Southern Africa Journalists Association-SAJA.
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Fuel problems resurface in the commercial city of Blantyre
24/11/11 Lilongwe Motorist in the city of Blantyre are queuing for fuel, an indication that the scarcity of petroleum has resurfaced.
................................................................................................................................... Vendors in Mzuzu defy a city council’s order to move out of the streets 25/11/11 Mzuzu Vendors in Mzuzu have gone back to the City’s streets defying a Council order to have them removed.
.................................................................................................................. Immigration offices are not disability friendly
25/11/11 Mzuzu People living with disabilities in Mzuzu have complained of facing difficulties when processing their passports at the Immigration offices as the building is disability unfriendly.
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GOVT to change the set up of presidential press conferences
24/11/11 Lilongwe Government has assured media practitioners in the country that there are going to be some positive changes, in the set up of presidential press conferences.
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Civil servants’ salary payments through banks has flopped - Nawena 24/11/11 Lilongwe Opposition Thyolo Thava Member of Parliament Lifred Nawena says government’s policy to have all civil servants get their salaries through banks is a flop.
.................................................................................................................. Police arrest 2 criminal suspects who have been hiding under the ceiling of Chichiri Shopping Mall
Two criminal suspects after being apprehended - Picture Courtesy of Gilbert Mwanguku 24/11/11 Blantyre Police in Blantyre have arrested two suspected criminals who have been hiding under the ceiling of the Chichiri Shopping Mall for almost a week.
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Khwauli Msiska elected as a deputy chairperson of parliamentary Budget and Finance Committee
23/11/11 Lilongwe The Budget and Finance Committee of parliament has elected Karonga Nyungwe legislator Khwauli Msiska as its deputy chairperson, making him the first opposition parliamentarian to lead a committee, since 2009.
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Adjustment to kwacha will be good - Dr Ligoya 23/11/11 Lilongwe Malawi might be forced to devalue its kwacha currency further to address a thriving black market trade of the US dollar that threatens to derail an already weak economy.
.................................................................................................................. Two Malawian students dies in a road accident near the Tanzania-Rwanda boarder
23/11/11 Tanzania Two Malawian students pursuing a Masters course at the University of Dar es Salaam have died in a road accident near the Tanzania-Rwanda boarder.
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CCASU obtains leave for judicial review against a commission of inquiry
22/11/11 Lilongwe The Chancellor College Academic Stuff Union-CCASU has obtained leave for judicial review against President Bingu wa Mutharika and a commission of inquiry he instituted to determine the definition of academic freedom.
Bright Theu explains........
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Post offices in poor state - Dr Chiwaya 22/11/11 Lilongwe United Democratic front-UDF chief whip in parliament Dr. Clement Chiwaya has lamented the poor state of Malawi’s post offices. Dr. Chiwaya made the observation in parliament today during question time.
.................................................................................................................. Subsidized farm input program on right track - Maganga
22/11/11 Lilongwe Government has refuted rumors that this year’s subsidized farm input program is facing a lot of challenges.
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ICC Judges to issue decision on Malawi
21/11/11 Lilongwe Judges at the world's only independent, permanent tribunal with the jurisdiction to try genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes the International Criminal Court-ICC will meet soon to decide the fate of Malawi on why it failed to arrest of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir.
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Malawi’s economic independence in relation to Zero-Deficit Budget and absence of donor support 21/11/11 Special Report MIJ fm’s special report assesses Malawi’s economic independence forty seven years after being weaned by its former colonial master, Britain.
Christopher Nhlane explains........
.................................................................................................................. Effects of urban poverty and climate change on urban dwellers living in slums
18/11/11 Lilongwe MIJ fm’s Sylvester Namiwa brings to light, effects of urban poverty and climate change, two children, born from a marriage, between uncontrolled migration to urban areas, and the depletion of natural resources. The problem of urbanization was brought to the fore, in a recent report which revealed that Malawi has an urbanization rate of 5.6 percent per annum; double that of the African continent. This is perhaps the reason why 90 percent of urban dwellers live in slums.
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CSO’s take a break from the UN facilitated dialogue with GOVT
18/11/11 Lilongwe Civil Society Organizations have taken a short break from the United Nations facilitated dialogue with government to discuss the country’s pressing emerging issues. The dialogue team has been trying to find lasting solutions to the various political and economic challenges presented to government in the July 20 petition. But the civil society leaders are not happy at the pace the Malawi Government is addressing their concerns. Following the development, they have convened a high level meeting in Lilongwe where emerging issues like looming incorporation of impeachment procedures and proposed salary hike for members of parliament are topping the agenda. However, in an interview with MIJ FM, leader of the civil society dialogue team, Voice Mhone, said they have realized that sticking to the July 20 petition would leave more crucial issues currently facing the nation. Voice Mhone explains.......
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2 criminals hide in the ceiling of Chichiri shopping mall 18/11/11 Blantyre Business came to a standstill this morning at Chichiri shopping mall in Blantyre as two criminals are suspected to be hiding in the ceiling of the building.
One of the criminals in hiding is believed to be a guard from a private company that is manning the premises because at exactly 9 o’clock yesterday the criminal was offering a lucrative deal to one of his colleagues on duty who revealed the matter to appropriate authorities who responded by sending police at the place. According to security officials at the place this is not the first time such an incident has happened and it has been observed that criminals use toilets as entry points. Station public relations officer for Blantyre police station Sergeant Beatrice Bwanali failed to disclose more details on the matter as police are still conducting their massive search. The shops at the premises were still open for business. .................................................................................................................. Effects of urban poverty and climate change on urban dwellers living in slums
18/11/11 Lilongwe MIJ fm’s Sylvester Namiwa brings to light, effects of urban poverty and climate change, two children, born from a marriage, between uncontrolled migration to urban areas, and the depletion of natural resources. The problem of urbanization was brought to the fore, in a recent report which revealed that Malawi has an urbanization rate of 5.6 percent per annum; double that of the African continent. This is perhaps the reason why 90 percent of urban dwellers live in slums.
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Kaliati is living in a comfortable life - Banda
17/11/11 Lilongwe Human Rights Activists have faulted government for failing to come to the people’s rescue, in view of the on-going economic challenges rocking the nation. The accusation has been made by the Executive Director of Malawi Watch Billy Banda, in reaction to an interview which government spokesperson, Patricia Kaliati gave to MIJ FM today. In the Interview Kaliati told MIJ FM that commodities like, sugar, salt and bread are not basic needs to Malawians, remarks that have irked the civil society and ordinary Malawians.
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UDF NEC can not resign - Mvula 15/11/11 Blantyre The National Executive Committee-NEC for the former ruling United Democratic Front-UDF has rubbished calls by its Southern Region governor, Macdonald Simon, for it to resign immediately. Political squabbles, emanating from battle for positions, in the party are refusing to die out. Addressing a gathering in Blantyre, Simon, who belongs to a camp headed by George Nga Ntafu, claimed the party’s senior members are putting the once mighty party in disarray. Macdonald Simon explains.......
Humphreys Mvula explains....... .................................................................................................................. Trade union displeased with MP's salary increment
17/11/11 Lilongwe The Malawi Congress of Trade Union – MCTU has described as unfair a proposal by members of parliament to have their monthly basic salaries increased to one million kwacha. Already many commentators have condemned the decision by the MPs arguing that it has come at a wrong time when the country is sailing through serious economic problems which have also led to rising costs of living. Robert Nkwezalamba, MCTU’s Secretary General, said MP's should priotise important issues affecting Malawians.
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MP's salary increment, ridiculous!
16/11/11 Lilongwe Economic and social activists have described as ridiculous, proposals by members of parliament to have their salaries increased to one million Kwacha. Yesterday, the house adopted a report from the Public Appointments and Declaration of Assets Committee, which highlighted the adjustment of the legislators’ salaries. The report indicates that the 390 thousand salary and other benefits which they currently receive are not enough and should be adjusted upwards to 1 million kwacha. The development has however received mixed reactions from various sections of society, with most of them describing the proposal as intolerant, saying it is not sustainable in the current economic crisis. Mavuto Bamusi, a social economic analyst, told MIJ fm, that the Malawi economy cannot stand the pressure to pay 193 parliamentarians, that amount of money every month. He has since appealed to President Bingu Wa Mutharika not to allow such an increment, unless salaries for all civil servants are reviewed and adjusted upwards, to suit the current economic challenges also.
................................................................................................................................... UDF NEC can not resign - Mvula 15/11/11 Blantyre The National Executive Committee-NEC for the former ruling United Democratic Front-UDF has rubbished calls by its Southern Region governor, Macdonald Simon, for it to resign immediately. Political squabbles, emanating from battle for positions, in the party are refusing to die out. Addressing a gathering in Blantyre, Simon, who belongs to a camp headed by George Nga Ntafu, claimed the party’s senior members are putting the once mighty party in disarray. Macdonald Simon explains.......
Humphreys Mvula explains....... .................................................................................................................. Workers at Fattani Offset Printers on strike
16/11/11 Blantyre Junior workers at Fattani Offset Printers in Blantyre have entered first day of an industrial sit-in aimed at pushing their management to increase their monthly salaries. The workers’ representatives told MIJ FM that they are demanding the salary increment with the rising cost of living. They claimed to have worked for over three years without any form of financial motivation.
But personnel and administration’s manager, Wales Chabuka, described the workers’ action as unjustifiable and illegal. He blamed the company’s failure to effect salary increments on the country’s never-ending forex shortages.
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Trade Union and GOVT tussle over pay increase
15/11/11 Lilongwe CSTU’s President Eliya Kamphinda Banda told MIJ FM that what the Minister of Finance Ken Lipenga said yesterday was uncalled for. In an interview yesterday Lipenga said that the Union is flouting procedures arguing that they know where to channel their grievances.
Kamphinda Banda said the civil servants are justified to stage the mass strike.
The Union wants government to increase their perks with at least a minimum wage of 50 thousand kwacha due to rising cost of living in the country ................................................................................................................................... Malawians worried with impeachment bill 15/11/11 Blantyre As business continues at the new parliament building in Lilongwe, various quarters of the society keep on echoing their voice in discouraging legislators to desist from deliberating the impeachment bill.
.................................................................................................................. CHREAA establish mobile clinics in Mulanje
14/11/11 Blantyre People from Chitakale and surrounding areas in Mulanje district will benefit from a mobile clinic on domestic violence, courtesy of three Students from the United States of America.
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Bingu speaks to Malawi media from China
14/11/11 Lilongwe President Bingu wa Mutharika who is on leave in China, has spoken to the Malawi media via mobile phone in a bid to put to rest rumors that the is sick.
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42nd Session of the Malawi National Assembly starts today 14/11/11 Mzuzu/ Lilongwe The 6th sitting of the 42nd Session of the Malawi National Assembly starts today and officials of the opposition Peoples’ Party-PP in the north have asked legislator to prioritize issues that affect Malawians during their, meeting rather than discussing impeachment procedures.
.................................................................................................................. CHREAA establish mobile clinics in Mulanje
14/11/11 Blantyre People from Chitakale and surrounding areas in Mulanje district will benefit from a mobile clinic on domestic violence, courtesy of three Students from the United States of America.
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CCASU to hold Big Red day
9/11/11 Zomba The Chancellor College Academic Staff Union-CCASU will on Friday hold activities marking the official end of the 8 month battle on academic freedom.
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Meteorological service warns people, of imminent floods due to heavy rains 9/11/11 Blantyre Authorities have warned people living in flood prone areas to be on alert, as the country is likely going to experience flooding due to high pressure moving across the country.
.................................................................................................................. MBS warn unscrupulous traders
9/11/11 Blantyre The Malawi Bureau of Standards-MBS has put in place measures aimed at dealing with the tendency of some unscrupulous of selling substandard goods.
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UNIMA Council Lawyers to meet their client on court cases
7/11/11 Zomba Lawyers representing the University of Malawi-UNIMA Council, have revealed that they are yet to receive instructions from their client on several cases which have accumulated in the country’s courts.
Patrice Nkhono explains.......
................................................................................................................................... MZUNI students gives management ultimatum 7/11/11 Mzuzu Mzuzu University students have given the college’s management up to second semester to find lasting solutions to their outstanding concerns pertaining to tuition and stationery allowances’.
.................................................................................................................. Special report on information gap between climate change experts and the rural masses
7/11/11 Special Report MIJ fm exposes the information gap existing between climate change experts and the rural masses despite being worst affected by climate change effects.
Anthony Masamba.......
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World Bank taken to task for failing to honour its financial support to education sector
4/11/11 Lilongwe The world’s quality education lobby groups, including those in Malawi, have taken the World Bank to task for allegedly lacking commitment to honour its financial support it pledged.
................................................................................................................................... Malawi welcomes two Pan-African caravans on their way to the 17th World Climate Summit in South Africa 4/11/11 Lilongwe Malawi will make an important stand in the fight against the global climate changes when it welcomes two Pan-African caravans on their way to the 17th World Climate Summit-COP17 in Durban, South Africa. The Climate Change Caravans will be putting pressure on all world leaders to act now for climate justice by presenting signed petitions to force the leaders to a fair and legally binding deal at COP 17. The campaign consists of a global petition to world leaders who will be attending the COP17 in December; the WE HAVE FAITH representing the youth and HOPE Caravans for civil society organizations which will transverse from Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, through Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana before arriving in South Africa for talks to be held in the Indian Ocean coastal city of Durban. Upon arrival of the two caravans, there will be a mass rally on November 27 - the day before the COP17 talks start, bringing with it petitions from many African countries. This rally will be hosted by the campaign patron, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, along with other world religious leaders and high-profile musicians and speakers. The Archbishop will address the crowds and hand over the petitions to the world leaders. While in the country, the two caravans will be joined by some Malawians including members of the civil society, who have a chance of voicing out concerns to the developed countries related to effects of climate change.
Malawi has experienced the effects of the climate changes over the last few decades such as heavy rainfall, flash floods, seasonal droughts and dry spells. Mphande, said though Malawi is only responsible for a very small amount of the global climate changes, many people - farmers and fishermen alike -are feeling the consequences of these changes.
.................................................................................................................. Special report on 2010-2011 tobacco selling season
4/11/11 Special Report Aubrey Kusakala analyses the 2010-2011 tobacco selling season, which has been characterized by numerous challenges such as low prices. The report also tries to find solutions to such challenges. Aubrey Kusakala.......
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July 20 petition snail pace response worries CSO
3/11/11 Blantyre Leaders of the civil society organizations are worried about the pace at which the Malawi government is trying to resolve various political, social and economic challenges presented in the July 20 petition. These include the fuel crisis, persistent forex shortages, perennial water problems, relentless power blackouts and the continued rise in the cost of living. They also want government to improve its local and human rights and governance record which they believe is scaring away donors and development partners. In response to these concerns, President Bingu Wa Mutharika conducted a public lecture in a bid to seek suggestions on how the problems could be solved. On a positive note, President Mutharika trimmed his cabinet to reduce unnecessary expenditures and in turn save the inadequate forex in the country. The Malawi leader has also ordered the re-instatement of the four fired Chancellor College lecturers who fought hard for academic freedom. This is despite the establishment of the United Nations-facilitated dialogue between government and the civil society aimed at lasting solutions to the challenges. Voice Mhone, Chairperson of the Council for Non-governmental Organizations in Malawi-CONGOMA argues the continued problems haunting poor Malawians are a clear testimony that all is not rosy in the country. Mhone, who is leader of the civil society groups to the UN-mediated dialogue, sheds more light.
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GOVT to respond to ICC on Al Bashir 3/11/11 Lilongwe Reports reaching MIJ FM are indicating that the Malawi Government is in the process of drafting a response to demands by the International Criminal Court-ICC on why it failed to arrest the Sudanese President Omar-Al-Bashir. The Sudanese president took part in the Common Market for the Eastern and southern Africa-COMESA meeting of heads of state and government.
Government is yet to confirm the development .................................................................................................................. GOVT & CSO dialogue teams to release a joint communique
3/11/11 Lilongwe Delegates to the United Nations facilitated dialogue between government and the civil society organizations are scheduled to release a joint communiqué on their recent resolutions this afternoon. For some time, there has been silence on resolutions made at the talks; a development that raised fears that the dialogue might have suffered another indefinite suspension. In an interview with MIJ FM, leader of the presidential contact and dialogue, Bishop Benard Malango, confirmed that the results of the agreements so far made would be known today. This is coming after President Mutharika’s administration has embarked on a mission to mend its sour relations with its donors and development partners.
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Ntafu out of UDF reconciliation deal - Symon
2/11/11 Blantyre Confusion continues locking the former ruling United Democratic Front-UDF following reports that the party’s treasurer general, Dr. George Nga-Ntafu, has dumped the reconciliation deal that the once warring sides effected about four months ago. The party embarked on a unification exercise to bring together two political camps that emerged in the party following leadership squabbles between Ntafu’s camp and that headed by its interim president, Friday Jumbe. Meanwhile, reports reaching MIJ FM indicate that Dr. Ntafu has again fallen out of grace with UDF’s National Executive Committee-NEC that is accusing him of supporting the presidential candidature of Machinga North-East parliamentarian, Atupele Muluzi in the 2014 general elections. Muluzi openly declared his intention to contest for the party’s candidacy last month, a decision which displeased the committee and argued that the younger Muluzi contravened the party’s constitution. But southern region governor for UDF, Macdonald Symon, claims that the party is in disarray and that Ntafu has decided to ditch the much talked unified party’s entity. Macdonald Symon explains.......
But Dr. Ntafu could neither deny nor confirm the development when MIJ FM sought his reaction on the matter. This is what Dr. Ntafu had to say in an interview with MIJ FM’s Christopher Nhlane........
UDF’s vice president, Sam Mpasu, admitted there is a slight confusion in the party which he claimed has resulted from Ntafu’s craving for leadership in the UDF.
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Court grants bail to a boy possessing disfigured pictures of Bingu 2/11/11 Zomba The Zomba magistrate court has granted bail to a boy who was arrested for being found in possession of disfigured pictures of President Bingu Wa Mutharika. Police arrested the 16-year-old boy for allegedly keeping pictures that portrayed the Malawi leader as a Rastafarian. In an interview with MIJ FM, Zomba Police Station spokesperson, Thomeck Nyaude, described the boy’s conduct as punishable by law.
Journalists equipped with climate change-related reporting skills
2/11/11 Liwonde A media workshop aimed at equipping journalists with climate change-related reporting skills is underway in Liwonde. Climate change challenges are believed to be worsening in the country; a situation that is widely blamed on high urbanization rate. MIJ FM’s Yvonnie Sundu explains.......
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UN facilitated dialogue between GOVT and the CSO bearing fruits
1/11/11 Lilongwe Delegates to the United Nations-facilitated-dialogue between government and the civil society organizations claim that President Bingu Wa Mutharika has assented to some of the recommendations made during their discussions. The talks are aimed at finding lasting solutions to various challenges civil rights activists raised in the July 20 petition. Fuel crisis, persistent forex shortages, power outages, perennial water problems and human rights and governance concerns forced Malawians to participate in a civil society organizations-led anti-government demonstrations in a bid to force authorities address the problems. To respond to these problems, the Malawi leader set up a Presidential Contact and Dialogue Committee to critically analyze and provide solutions to the same. The UN is facilitating the dialogue that almost collapsed over the civil society’s concerns on their security following a spate of attacks and threats on some human rights defenders. This prompted the UN to call for a high powered official from its Nairobi office to facilitate the resumption for the talks. But reports are rife that nothing is happening at the dialogue raising suspicions that the talks have suffered another indefinite suspension. However, in an interview with MIJ fm, leader for the Presidential Contact and Dialogue Committee, Bishop Bernard Malango, revealed that fruitful discussions have been going on adding President Mutharika is in agreement to some of the recommendation so far made. Bishop Bernard Malango explains.......
................................................................................................................................... GOVT to blame for current price increase - CAMA 1/11/11 Blantyre Consumers Rights campaigners are accusing government on the current increase of price of commodities on the market. This comes as prices for basic commodities continue rising on the market. Economists and opposition political parties have attributed this to the recent kwacha devaluation effected by government. The development has also seen minibus operators hiking fares arguing there is nothing they can do due to the recent cost of living. But speaking in an interview with MIJ FM, Executive Director of the Consumers Association of Malawi-CAMA, John Kapito, blames the current situation for authorities’ failure to monitor market operations. Kapito adds government is failing to provide fuel; a move he believes is forcing traders to make unnecessary adjustments to prices of goods especially in informal markets. John Kapito explains.......
MBC Case adjourned
1/11/11 Blantyre The high court in Blantyre has today adjourned a case in which employees from the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation-MBC are seeking a court relief to stop their management from retrenching them. They are also against redeployment to other departments of government. The case has been adjourned waiting for a ruling to be delivered by Justice Maclean Kamwambe. Out of 700 employs at MBC, only 413 still have jobs. Some employs have been redeployed to Ministries of information and civic education, science and technology, departments of the Auditor general’s office and national statistical office while others have been forced to retire. The retrenched and redeployed employees have since gone back to MBC following the high court order for the judicial review. Meanwhile, lawyer for the complainants, Bob Chimkango, says he will prepare a notice of adjournment and seek a fresh date for the hearing.
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NO APOLOGY - SATA
31/10/11 Blantyre The newly elected Zambian President, Michael Sata, claims he has not yet received formal documents confirming that the Malawi government cleared and apologized him. Two weeks ago, President Bingu Wa Mutharika released a press statement clearing Sata’s immigration status and allowing him to visit the country any time. This followed sour relations between the country and his government over his deportation by President Mutharika’s regime in 2006 when he allegedly failed to explicitly explain his mission in the country. But Malawi’s presidential spokesperson, Dr. Hetherwick Ntaba, reportedly dismissed apology reports claiming government had only cleared Sata’s immigration status. In an interview with MIJ FM, the country’s lawyer for Sata, Ralph Kasambara, said his contact with the Zambian leader yesterday evening revealed there is no change in his immigration status. Ralph Kasambara explains.......
................................................................................................................................... Was the battle for academic freedom worth it? 28/10/11 Special Report MIJ fm’s Brenda Kawonga takes a closer look at the seven month-long academic freedom fight, at the University of Malawi’s Chancellor College. The fight began technically on 27th February, after the summoning and questioning, of associate professor, Blessings Chinsinga. Police Chief Peter Mukhitho, accused Chinsinga of teaching his students anarchy, in his public opinion class. Brenda asks whether the fight, that has lasted about 8 months now, was it really worth the time Brenda Kawonga.......
No raise in Minibus fares
31/10/11 Blantyre The Minibus Owners Association of Malawi-MOAM says it has not increased bus fares as a response to the continued fuel shortage problems hitting the country. Many commuters have taken advantage of the shortage of fuel as well as the exorbitant prices of fuel on the black market, to increase bus fares. However, in an interview with MIJ fm, MOAM Secretary General Coxley Kamange said there is no official bus fares hike, but what is happening is that, operators have reverted to the certified prices, which normally fall down due to fluctuation of business. While acknowledging that the fuel scarcity has affected MOAM’s operations, Kamange called on passengers to report all minibuses who are overcharging.
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MIJ graduates 121 students
28/10/11 Blantyre Journalists in the country have been urged to intensify their commitment towards increasing public awareness on key issues that affect Malawians to help them make informed choices on their lives.
She however expressed concern that inadequate spaces in most of the local media institutions deprive new graduates of practical skills in the industry. Dalitso Nkunika explains.......
................................................................................................................................... Was the battle for academic freedom worth it? 28/10/11 Special Report MIJ fm’s Brenda Kawonga takes a closer look at the seven month-long academic freedom fight, at the University of Malawi’s Chancellor College. The fight began technically on 27th February, after the summoning and questioning, of associate professor, Blessings Chinsinga. Police Chief Peter Mukhitho, accused Chinsinga of teaching his students anarchy, in his public opinion class. Brenda asks whether the fight, that has lasted about 8 months now, was it really worth the time Brenda Kawonga.......
Phalombe CCAP youth organise big walk
27/10/11 Phalombe More than 40 youths from Phalombe CCAP youth ministry have organized a big walk in which they intend to raise over half a million kwacha.
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Riot Police arrest 15 Mzuni students
27/10/11 Mzuzu Riots that left 15 students arrested at Mzuzu University have entered a second day. The students are protesting against unapproved bursaries.
As of now level two students have not yet received their loans for the whole year while those in fourth year have not received loans for one semester. Speaking on conditions of anonymity, one of the students at Mzuzu University said the students are rioting because the bank has approved loans for some students while other bursaries have been approved either in halves or they have |
