GHANA, S PRESIDENT MAHAMA WALKING THE TALK

By Masauko Alfred Mzongwe

 In a bold cost-cutting move, President of Ghana John Dramani Mahama has scrapped all fuel allowances and allocations for political appointees with immediate effect.

According to a press statement from the Presidency dated Tuesday, July 15, 2025, the directive is part of a broader effort to reduce government expenditure and redirect public funds toward priority areas.

President Mahama emphasized that “leadership must bear its part of the sacrifices it calls on the people to make,” reinforcing his administration’s commitment to fiscal discipline and public accountability.

The announcement follows earlier reforms to cut down the size of government, including the appointment of fewer ministers and presidential staff. 

Additionally, satellite TV subscriptions for government offices, including the Presidency, have also been suspended.

The statement, signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of Government Communications and Presidential Spokesperson, positions this move as a necessary step to realign governance with the current economic realities.

COMBAT VOTER APATHY AHEAD OF POLLS-NICE URGES AREA CIVIC EDUCATION COORDINATORS

By Masauko Alfred Mzongwe 

The National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Trust has called on Area Civic Education Coordinators in Kasungu District to intensify their efforts in educating the public and mobilizing voters ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

In an interview, NICE Kasungu District Programs Officer Gerald Chirwa emphasized the need for early and consistent civic engagement to counter voter apathy that has historically affected turnout, particularly in rural constituencies.

" I am urging all Area Coordinators to be vigilant and proactive in their civic duties. This is a critical period where our collective action can determine whether people exercise their right to vote. We must ensure every eligible voter is informed and inspired to take part in this important national event,” Chirwa said.

He encouraged civic educators to strengthen partnerships with community leaders, local institutions, and media outlets to spread voter awareness messages.

Meanwhile a kasungu central Constituency area Civic education coordinator henry zimba, highlighted the importance of grassroots engagement.

“As civic educators, we are the direct link between the electoral process and the people. I have already scaled up outreach activities in schools, churches, and marketplaces to emphasize the importance of voting. This is a democratic responsibility, and we cannot take it lightly,” said zimba.

He further stressed the need for support from stakeholders and appealed for increased community participation.

“We are urging every citizen to take this election seriously. It is about our future, and voting is the only way to shape it,” Banda added.

Also weighing in was Area Civic Education Coordinator Frank Lumwira, who oversees outreach in parts of Kasungu North-East. He acknowledged the challenges posed by voter apathy but remained confident that consistent civic education can make a huge difference..

He urged all civic education personnel to treat the upcoming elections as a national priority, adding that their actions will have a lasting impact on Malawi’s democratic development.

Commenting on the issue good governance expert peter mumba commended Nice public trust for its efforts and emphasized that increased voter turnout is a cornerstone of any strong democracy.

“High voter turnout is not just a sign of democratic health but it is an essential ingredient for accountability .when people stay away from voting, they leave decision to a few, which weakens the legitimacy of elected officials, people should be aware that every vote counts and has power, people must understand that the ballot is their voice and silence is a setback to development” mumba said.

Gerald Chirwa: we should make sure that eligible voters cast their vote.

Peter Mumba: If more people turn up it shows that our democracy is growing

BRACING FOR HARD ECONOMIC TIMES

 

IMF terminates EFC Program with Malawi government due to corruption; waits new govt in September to renew the program 

We are now in self inflicting economic mood as IMF has terminated $175 million ( K306 billion) Extended Credit Facility (EFC) that was meant to restore macroeconomic stability and boost investor confidence in the country.

There will be no forex cushion for government as well until elections are conducted in September.

Reads the statement in part: "The programme faced a number of exogenous shocks which made it difficult for the supply side to assist both increased revenue and enhanced production. 

"This resolution allows the political environment necessary for the progression of the ECF programme to normalize as is expected after the elections in September, 2025, thus enabling government to leverage it's fresh electoral mandate in negotiating a more sustainable extended credit facility package for Malawi's macroeconomic stability going forward."

WESTERN LEADERS AGREE UNCONDITIONAL CEASEFIRE IN UKRAINE

Leaders of major Western nations, including the United States, issued a unified demand on Saturday calling on the Kremlin to implement an immediate and unconditional 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, set to begin on May 12.

The coordinated appeal comes amid mounting humanitarian concerns, surging civilian casualties, and escalating hostilities that continue to destabilize the region.

The proposed ceasefire aims to provide urgent relief to war-torn areas, particularly those enduring relentless shelling and restricted access to essential resources such as food, water, and medical aid.

Western leaders underscored that the truce must be unconditional—firmly rejecting any preconditions or negotiations that could legitimize Russia’s ongoing aggression.

“If the Kremlin fails to comply,” the leaders warned, “we will strengthen sanctions against Russia’s banking and energy sectors.”

Such a move would significantly increase economic pressure on Moscow, targeting core revenue streams that fund its military operations.

The joint statement represents a pivotal moment in international diplomacy, signaling a more assertive and coordinated stance against Russia’s invasion. By tying compliance to the threat of tougher sanctions, Western powers aim to compel the Kremlin to de-escalate or face deeper isolation from global financial systems.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the announcement, expressing gratitude for the unity shown by Ukraine’s allies.

“We together demand this from Russia, and we know the United States supports us in this,” Zelensky said, reaffirming the strength of transatlantic solidarity.

His remarks echoed Ukraine’s longstanding appeal for a rules-based international order and the defense of national sovereignty in the face of foreign aggression.

The United States, a leading provider of military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, reiterated its alignment with European allies, reinforcing the legitimacy and urgency of the ceasefire demand.

In Moscow, Kremlin officials responded defiantly, defending their military campaign and accusing the West of inflaming the conflict through ongoing military support for Kyiv.

Analysts suggest the ceasefire could serve as a vital opportunity for renewed diplomacy—or at the very least, a humanitarian window to evacuate civilians and deliver aid to embattled communities. Still, there are concerns that Moscow may interpret the ceasefire as a tactical pause rather than a step toward genuine de-escalation.

Should Russia reject the proposal, the promised sanctions could have sweeping effects. Sanctions targeting the banking and energy sectors would cripple crucial pillars of the Russian economy. The energy industry, in particular, is a key source of state revenue, and stricter penalties could send shockwaves through global oil and gas markets.

Meanwhile, financial sanctions would restrict Russia’s access to international capital, hinder banking transactions, and deepen the economic burden on ordinary citizens already grappling with inflation and shortages.

Despite these risks, Western leaders insist that a firm response is necessary to uphold international law and protect the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

As May 12 approaches, global attention will be focused on Russia’s next move—either toward compliance and potential de-escalation or defiance and further economic isolation.

The situation in Ukraine continues to challenge global alliances, test diplomatic resolve, and underscore the fragile state of peace in an increasingly polarized world.

PUTIN,TRAORE CEMENTS TIES

 PRESIDENT PUTIN TELLING IBRAHIM TRAORE:

" You are my son , and take me like your father. Anyone who tries to touch you has touched me too. I will be watching you grow and I will protect you like my son. Whenever you need help , find me..."- President Putin of Russia 

- The President of Africa Ibrahim Traore is growing stronger and stronger .

MBELWA CHIEFS COUNCIL URGES MZIMBA RESIDENTS TO REFRAIN FROM HARBOURING ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS

 The Mbelwa chiefs council has expressed concern over the increasing trend of residents in mzimba district assisting illegal foreign nationals in entering the country. The council warns that this practice could jeopardise national security.

The remarks come in the wake of a surge in human trafficking and illegal immigration cases recorded in 2024 alone in the district.

In an interview, the council's secretary general Inkosi Jalavikuba emphasised the risks possed by harbouring and aiding illegal immigrants highlighting the potential dangers they may bring.

"It is extremely dangerous to assist foreign nationals in entering our country illegally. We can never be sure what they are truly fleeing from. They may be war criminals or even terrorists trying to evade justice in their home countries. By harbouring them, we are putting our national security at serious risk", said Jalavikuba.

Meanwhile public relations officer for the immigration department and citizen services Wellington Chiponde stated that the department has intensified efforts to combat the vice by tightening surveillance along the borders and collaborating with other security agencies in the country.

"We are currently working tirelessly with our colleagues in various security departments to assist us in operations so that we can diminish these trending malpractices. Additionally, we are also working with community and religious leaders to tackle the issue from all angles", he said.

However social commentator Peter Mumbai has called for harsh penalities for those involved in these illegal activities including public officers and other perpetrators arguing stringent punishment would serve as a deterrent to others.

"It is crucial that our judicial system imposes severe sentences on those engaged in these unlawful activities. Such actions would send a clear message that crimes will not be tolerated in our motherland", Mumba stated.

He further urged authorities to intensify awareness campaigns across communities ,stressing that educating the public about the dangers of harbouring illegal immigrants and human trafficking is essential in eradicating the problem.

The growing concern over illegal immigration and human trafficking highlights the urgent need for both preventative measures and stricter enforcement of laws to safeguard Malawi's security.

Inkosi Jalavikuba: we should be patriotic to our country

MDF, KASASILE DWELLERS REACH A RESOLUTION

A resolution has been reached between the people of Kasasile, the Malawi Defence Force (MDF), and the Ministry of Lands over 17, 712 hectares of land, following a sensitisation meeting held by the Ministry at Kasasile.

Traditional Authority M'bwana of Nkhata Bay accepted that the land belongs to the MDF, as confirmed by a map presented during the meeting. He, however, urged the government to find alternative land to resettle families who were displaced.

On December 4, 2024, MDF soldiers seized land from over 328 families in Kasasile, claiming it belonged to the government, forcing the affected families to sleep in and around a church using plastic materials to build temporary shelters.

MDF Commander, General Paul Valentino Phiri said the people were removed for their own safety, as the area is part of the Viphya firing range. He added that his office is investigating reports of abuse, including theft of property and crops, during the operation.