By Burnett Munthali
The Concerned Citizens of Malawi have issued a scathing condemnation of the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority’s (MACRA) proposed plan to procure an exorbitant and controversial technology machine. In a press release dated January 26, 2025, the group accused MACRA of prioritizing political manipulation and economic irresponsibility over the urgent needs of struggling Malawians.
Describing the plan as shrouded in secrecy and devoid of public consultation, the group raised serious concerns about the motives behind the procurement. They questioned why a regulatory institution tasked with enhancing communication services would align itself with an agenda perceived as infringing on the freedoms of the people it is meant to serve.
The timing of this decision has further fueled public anger. The Concerned Citizens pointed out that Malawi is currently facing severe economic hardships, with inflation soaring, unemployment on the rise, and critical public services crumbling. Hospitals lack essential drugs, schools are overcrowded, and infrastructure continues to deteriorate. Against this backdrop, MACRA’s decision to spend vast sums of taxpayers’ money on a dubious piece of technology has been labeled as a betrayal of public trust.
“This decision is not only an affront to fiscal prudence but also a gross display of indifference to the plight of ordinary Malawians,” the group’s statement read.
The Concerned Citizens further alleged that the procurement was not driven by a genuine need to improve communication services but rather to advance political surveillance. They warned that the technology, if acquired, could be weaponized to monitor dissent, silence critics, and invade the privacy of ordinary citizens. This, they argued, would pave the way for authoritarian tactics aimed at stifling democratic freedoms.
“MACRA’s move is a clear indication of the government’s intent to weaponize state institutions against its own people,” the group declared.
In their statement, the Concerned Citizens issued four key demands to MACRA and the government:
1) Immediately halt the procurement process and redirect the funds to address Malawi’s pressing social and economic challenges.
2) Provide full transparency by disclosing the details of the procurement plan, including its purpose, cost, and the decision-making process.
3) Cease all efforts to infringe upon the constitutional rights of Malawians, including the right to privacy and freedom of expression.
4) Prioritize delivering essential services to Malawians rather than pursuing politically motivated and wasteful projects.
The group also called on civil society organizations, opposition parties, and all Malawians to unite and reject what they described as a gross misuse of power. They vowed to remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice and accountability, warning MACRA and other complicit actors that Malawians are watching closely.
“This is not the time for wasteful spending or authoritarian tactics. It is a time for leadership that respects the rights of Malawians and prioritizes their welfare,” the statement emphasized.
As public outcry mounts, the Concerned Citizens have made it clear that they will not rest until this controversial procurement plan is abandoned and resources are directed toward addressing the real challenges facing the nation. Their declaration serves as a powerful reminder to those in authority that Malawians will not tolerate actions that betray their trust and jeopardize their future.
The ball is now in MACRA’s court. Will it heed the demands of the people, or will it proceed with a plan that risks further alienating the public? One thing is certain: the eyes of the nation are watching.
