Minister of Information Shadric Namalomba says Government rejects allegations of corruption and nepotism made by UTM President Dalitso Kabambe, describing them as unsubstantiated.
In a statement responding to Kabambe’s criticism of the management of agriculture, fuel and foreign exchange on local media, Namalomba said the country was already facing economic challenges before President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika returned to power in September 2025.
On fuel, Namalomba attributed supply challenges to foreign exchange constraints, which are making imports difficult to finance.
Nonetheless, he said the country’s economic fundamentals had shown a positive trajectory since Mutharika’s return to the presidency.
According to Namalomba, the Government achievements report records a reduction in the fiscal deficit from 12.5 percent to 9 percent of GDP.
“This means the gap between Government revenue and spending has narrowed, reflecting efforts to control expenditure and strengthen revenue collection,” he said.
He also said annual inflation had declined from 28.7 percent in September 2025 to 20 percent in August 2026, while benchmark interest rates had fallen from 28.75 percent to 18 percent.
On food and agriculture, Namalomba said the administration had inherited the effects of drought, shortages of farm inputs and pressure on household food supplies.
He said Government was prioritising fertiliser access, agricultural production, food availability and stronger markets for farmers.
On foreign exchange, Namalomba said Government was working to strengthen domestic production, exports and financial management.
“A figure for official foreign reserves does not mean that the same amount is immediately available to businesses and commercial banks,” he said.
On corruption and nepotism, Namalomba said allegations alone were not proof of misconduct and challenged Kabambe to provide evidence to the relevant authorities.
“Dr. Kabambe should identify the contracts and officials concerned and submit any supporting evidence to the appropriate authorities,” he said.
