The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has submitted a formal complaint accusing President Lazarus Chakwera and the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) of vote buying and misuse of public funds. The complaint, sent to the Registrar of Political Parties, claims that the president is using taxpayer money for political gain.
The DPP says the misconduct involves giving K50,000 cash handouts to selected groups, including youth, chiefs, and teachers. These people are reportedly taken to State Residences using government vehicles. Visits were recorded at the presidential homes in Lilongwe, Sanjika in Blantyre, Mzuzu, and Chikoko Bay in Mangochi.
The party argues that these actions are meant to influence voters during difficult economic times. According to the DPP, this practice is unethical and breaks the rules of free and fair elections. They say it damages the public’s trust in democratic systems.
A letter dated July 17, 2025, signed by DPP Secretary General Peter Mukhito, outlines the party’s concerns. The letter refers to media reports both within Malawi and internationally. These include reports from well-known outlets like The Nation and others. These reports show how ordinary Malawians are struggling while political leaders give out money.
The DPP believes that this money is coming from public funds or foreign donor aid. They argue that using such funds for political gain is illegal. They say it violates Section 4 of the Political Parties Act (2018), which forbids the use of public resources for party activities.
The DPP has called on the Registrar of Political Parties to take quick action. They have requested a full investigation into the source and legality of the K50,000 handouts. They also want the Registrar to stop any political activities happening at State Residences.
In addition, the party has asked the Registrar to work with the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to trace the funds being used. They want answers about where the money comes from and why it is being given out.
The DPP also wants the Registrar to make a public statement. They say this statement should confirm that the law will be upheld and that vote buying will not be tolerated. They want the Registrar to warn political parties that such conduct will lead to penalties.
In their complaint, the DPP stresses that President Chakwera, as the MCP’s presidential candidate, should be held to a higher standard. They argue that giving cash to potential voters during the campaign period is not only illegal but also morally wrong.
The letter states that the president’s outreach programs are being used as a front to give out cash, which gives the ruling party an unfair advantage. It says this sets a bad example for the rest of the country and puts the fairness of the upcoming elections at risk.
The DPP wants strict enforcement of the law. They say that allowing this kind of behavior weakens the political system and sends the wrong message to both the public and other parties.
The issue of political handouts has long been a concern in Malawi. In recent years, leaders from different parties have been accused of giving gifts or money in exchange for support. However, the DPP says that this current case stands out because it involves the misuse of government property and funds on a large scale.
The party is urging authorities to treat the matter with urgency. They want steps taken before the situation worsens or becomes common practice. According to them, fair elections depend on trust, equal rules, and the proper use of public resources.
If the complaint leads to formal action, it could have a major impact on how political campaigns are run in Malawi. The DPP says they will continue to follow up until justice is served.
