Malawi Defence Force want pay rise: Mutharika to address soldiers

Malawi Defence Force (MDF) junior ranked officers are demanding cash-strapped government to consider salary hikes of up to 70 percent for the  solider to match with the rising cost of living.

In a letter seen by Nyasa Times, soldiers are asking government to increase their allowance, improve their accommodation and transport facilities and enhance their promotion system and pensions.

“We are looking at salary adjustments of up to 70 percent, including allowances to be awarded to some ranks,” reads the letter the soldiers are circulating in barracks.

Meanwhile, President Peter Mutharika will on Thursday June 4 address soldiers at Kamuzu Barracks in Lilongwe and their families.

According to Presidential Press Secretary Gerald Viola, Mutharika will tour the barracks in the  morning before addressing the men and women in camouflage.

Viola said Mutharika’s visit to Kamuzu Barracks is a “routine tour” which the President, as Commander-In-Chief of the Malawi Defence Force can undertake at any given time.