Mutharika enjoys being called APM – Aide
Malawi President Peter Mutharika is happy to be called ‘APM’ by his political supporters and the media, his special aide Ben Phiri has said.
Phiri told a local radio that the Head of State has “welcomed” the APM tag as “a unique trade mark”.
“The official name still remains His Excellency, Professor Aurther Peter Mutharika, President of the Republic of Malawi but the short form of APM is still okay to be used,” Phiri said.
“Really the name to him doesn’t matter. He likes to be called APM too,” added Phiri, a confidant to the President.
Former president Joyce Banda was fondly called JB, ex-president Bakili Muluzi used to be referred to as BM. Former leader of opposition John Zenus Ungapake Tembo was famously known as JZU.
Phiri said President Mutharika has been an office man since his election in May, describing him as a “workaholic.”
On his free time, Phiri disclosed that Mutharika “enjoys reading and writing books,” hinting that the President would be publishing a new book.
Phiri also said President Mutharika likes watching news and current affairs programes on television
Mutharika also watches American football, discloses Phiri.
“He is a sportsman. APM also enjoys watching football. He followed World Cup including watching the finals [between Germany and Argentina],” said Phiri.
Fact File
- Born in 1940
- Studied law at the US’s Yale University and University of London
- Former law professor at Washington University
- Elected MP in 2009
- Brother of late President Bingu wa Mutharika
- Justice, education and foreign minister in brother’s cabinet
- Accused of plotting coup in 2012; denies treason charge
