Old habits die hard! Chakwera’s post-elections travel sparks fresh outrage

By Kenneth Bwanali

LILONGWE(MaraviPost)–Barely three months after Malawians went to the polls and decisively voted to remove the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) administration, former President Lazarus Chakwera is once again under fire for the very behavior many believe cost him the presidency: a relentless appetite for international travel.

Political analysts and ordinary citizens alike have expressed dismay as news emerged that the former leader has already visited Tanzania and is currently in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. For many, these trips signify a “tone-deaf” approach to the concerns that led to his crushing defeat in the September 16, 2025, general elections.

A Campaign Defined by the “Globetrotter” Label

During his five years in office, Chakwera was frequently criticized for his frequent foreign trips, often accompanied by large entourages.

Critics nicknamed him the “Globetrotter-in-Chief,” arguing that while the country’s economy was in a tailspin—marked by 33% inflation, chronic fuel shortages, and a lack of foreign exchange—the President was busy collecting per diems in foreign capitals.

“The election was a referendum on his lifestyle and his detachment from the suffering of the common man,” said Lilongwe-based political commentator, Kondwani Phiri. “Malawians expected that after losing, he would take a period of quiet reflection at home. Instead, he is back at the airport. It seems he has learned nothing and forgotten nothing.”

Tanzania and Dubai: The Post-Presidency Itinerary

While Chakwera was recently appointed as a Commonwealth Special Envoy to Tanzania to assist with mediation efforts following their own disputed elections—a role that technically justifies his travel—it is the subsequent trip to Dubai that has raised eyebrows.

Social media platforms have been flooded with comments from Malawians who feel that the former president should have prioritized “image repair” by staying grounded in Malawi.

“We voted him out because he loved the sky more than the soil of Malawi,” wrote one user on X (formerly Twitter). “To see him in Dubai now just proves he never really cared about our concerns. He is addicted to the jet-set life.”

The “Changed Man” Opportunity Missed

Political strategists argue that the post-election period offered Chakwera a unique opportunity to prove his critics wrong. By staying at home, engaging with his party’s grassroots, and showing solidarity with Malawians still struggling with the economic mess his administration left behind, he could have built a narrative of a “reformed statesman.”

Instead, the sight of him in international lounges has reinforced the perception of a leader who is more comfortable in the company of foreign dignitaries than in the markets of Area 25 or Limbe.

The Road Ahead for MCP

As the Malawi Congress Party begins the painful process of soul-searching and preparing for life in the opposition, the actions of its leader continue to cast a long shadow.

With Peter Mutharika now back at the helm and promising a “tough and painful” return to economic stability, the MCP needs to convince the electorate that it can be a responsible alternative.

However, as long as its leader continues to prioritize international travel over domestic presence, that remains a difficult sell.

For now, it appears that for Lazarus Chakwera, the world is still his stage—even if the Malawian people have already pulled the curtain on his performance.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the article are those of the author not necessarily of The Maravi Post or Editor


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Sharp Focus: A green legacy on how Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation champions environmental stewardship

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation, led by the dedicated Board Chairperson Mary Chilima, has taken a commendable step towards promoting environmental sustainability in Malawi.

The foundation’s recent visit to Nanjati Primary School was a resounding success, with a tree planting exercise that brought together community members and stakeholders to drive home the importance of preserving the country’s vegetative cover.

This inspiring initiative underscores the foundation’s commitment to environmental conservation and community development, showcasing the power of collective action in driving positive change.

By organizing the tree planting exercise, the foundation has demonstrated its proactive approach to addressing the pressing issue of environmental degradation, a major concern for Malawi’s future.

The event was a testament to the foundation’s dedication to creating a greener tomorrow, with Madame Chilima emphasizing the need for Malawians to take responsibility for nurturing trees beyond just planting them.

Her call to action is a timely reminder that environmental sustainability requires collective effort and dedication, highlighting the importance of individual contributions to the country’s environmental well-being.

“We must develop a habit of looking after trees after planting as one way of sustaining the environment,” Madame Chilima urged, underscoring the foundation’s commitment to environmental conservation.

This message is particularly significant in Malawi, where environmental degradation and climate change pose significant challenges to the country’s development and prosperity.

The foundation’s efforts are a shining example of how collective action can drive meaningful change, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a greener Malawi.

The 800 trees planted at Nanjati Primary School, courtesy of C’ Steinweg Bridge Logistics Company, demonstrate the impact that collaborative efforts can have in promoting environmental sustainability.

This initiative not only enhances the school’s surroundings but also contributes to the country’s broader efforts to restore its natural beauty and mitigate the effects of climate change.

Tree planting exercises like this one are crucial for Malawi, given the country’s vulnerability to environmental degradation and climate-related challenges.

By engaging local communities and organizations, the Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation is helping to foster a culture of environmental stewardship and inspire others to take action.

As Malawi continues to grapple with environmental issues, initiatives like this serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of collective action in driving positive change.

The event at Nanjati Primary School is part of the foundation’s ongoing efforts to promote environmental conservation and community development, showcasing the foundation’s commitment to creating a brighter future for Malawi.

Madame Chilima’s leadership has been instrumental in driving the foundation’s environmental agenda, with her passion for environmental conservation inspiring others to take action.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s tree planting initiative has sparked a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members, who are now eager to take care of the trees and ensure their growth.

This is a significant step towards creating a culture of environmental stewardship in Malawi, where community members are taking an active role in promoting sustainability.

The foundation’s efforts are a testament to the power of partnerships in driving positive change, demonstrating the impact that collaborative efforts can have in promoting environmental sustainability.

As the foundation continues to champion environmental stewardship, it is clear that its impact will be felt for years to come, contributing to a greener, more sustainable Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s commitment to environmental conservation is a shining example of how individuals and organizations can make a difference, inspiring others to take action.

The school’s surroundings are now a testament to the power of collective action, with the trees planted serving as a symbol of hope for a greener tomorrow.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s initiative has sparked a sense of hope and optimism in Malawi, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a brighter future.

As Malawi continues to grapple with environmental challenges, initiatives like this serve as a reminder that collective action can drive positive change, promoting a greener, more sustainable future.

The foundation’s efforts are a shining example of how collective action can drive meaningful change, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a greener Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s commitment to environmental conservation is a testament to the power of leadership and community engagement, inspiring others to take action.

The foundation’s efforts will have a lasting impact on Malawi’s environment and communities, contributing to a brighter future for generations to come.

As the foundation continues to champion environmental stewardship, it is clear that its impact will be felt for years to come, promoting a greener, more sustainable Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s initiative has shown that environmental conservation is a collective responsibility, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a greener tomorrow.

The foundation’s efforts are a shining example of how individuals and organizations can make a difference, promoting a greener, more sustainable future for Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s tree planting initiative is a commendable effort that deserves praise and support, demonstrating the power of collective action in driving positive change.

As we look to the future, it is clear that initiatives like this will play a crucial role in shaping Malawi’s environmental landscape, promoting a greener, more sustainable future.

The foundation’s efforts are a shining example of how collective action can drive meaningful change, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a greener Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s commitment to environmental conservation is a testament to the power of leadership and community engagement, inspiring others to take action.

The foundation’s efforts will have a lasting impact on Malawi’s environment and communities, contributing to a brighter future for generations to come.

As the foundation continues to champion environmental stewardship, it is clear that its impact will be felt for years to come, promoting a greener, more sustainable Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s initiative has sparked a sense of hope and optimism in Malawi, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a brighter future.

The foundation’s efforts are a shining example of how collective action can drive meaningful change, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a greener Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s commitment to environmental conservation is a testament to the power of leadership and community engagement, inspiring others to take action.

The foundation’s efforts will have a lasting impact on Malawi’s environment and communities, contributing to a brighter future for generations to come.

As the foundation continues to champion environmental stewardship, it is clear that its impact will be felt for years to come, promoting a greener, more sustainable Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s initiative has shown that environmental conservation is a collective responsibility, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a greener tomorrow.

The foundation’s efforts are a shining example of how individuals and organizations can make a difference, promoting a greener, more sustainable future for Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s tree planting initiative is a commendable effort that deserves praise and support, demonstrating the power of collective action in driving positive change.

As we look to the future, it is clear that initiatives like this will play a crucial role in shaping Malawi’s environmental landscape, promoting a greener, more sustainable future.

The foundation’s efforts are a shining example of how collective action can drive meaningful change, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a greener Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s commitment to environmental conservation is a testament to the power of leadership and community engagement, inspiring others to take action.

The foundation’s efforts will have a lasting impact on Malawi’s environment and communities, contributing to a brighter future for generations to come.

As the foundation continues to champion environmental stewardship, it is clear that its impact will be felt for years to come, promoting a greener, more sustainable Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s initiative has sparked a sense of hope and optimism in Malawi, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a brighter future.

The foundation’s efforts are a shining example of how collective action can drive meaningful change, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a greener Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s commitment to environmental conservation is a testament to the power of leadership and community engagement, inspiring others to take action.

The foundation’s efforts will have a lasting impact on Malawi’s environment and communities, contributing to a brighter future for generations to come.

As the foundation continues to champion environmental stewardship, it is clear that its impact will be felt for years to come, promoting a greener, more sustainable Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s initiative has shown that environmental conservation is a collective responsibility, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a greener tomorrow.

The foundation’s efforts are a shining example of how individuals and organizations can make a difference, promoting a greener, more sustainable future for Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s tree planting initiative is a commendable effort that deserves praise and support, demonstrating the power of collective action in driving positive change.

As we look to the future, it is clear that initiatives like this will play a crucial role in shaping Malawi’s environmental landscape, promoting a greener, more sustainable future.

The foundation’s efforts are a shining example of how collective action can drive meaningful change, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a greener Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s commitment to environmental conservation is a testament to the power of leadership and community engagement, inspiring others to take action.

The foundation’s efforts will have a lasting impact on Malawi’s environment and communities, contributing to a brighter future for generations to come.

As the foundation continues to champion environmental stewardship, it is clear that its impact will be felt for years to come, promoting a greener, more sustainable Malawi.

The Saulos Klaus Chilima Foundation’s initiative has sparked a sense of hope and optimism in Malawi, inspiring others to take action and contribute to a brighter future.

The foundation’s efforts are a shining example of how collective action can drive meaningful change.


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