Mutharika hits out at critics: ‘Too much envy in Malawi’

President Peter Mutharika has described as envy pieces of advice and criticisms from some sections of the society who fear the Malawi leader is increasingly becoming obstinate.

Speaking during the ground breaking ceremony of the Lilongwe Old Airport, Kasiya-Santhe road project on Wednesday in the capital Lilongwe, Mutharika said Malawians should stop name calling if the country has to develop.

“There is too much envy in this country,” said Mutharika, conspicuously looking furious.

Mutharika has of late come under intense criticism for selling off the Malawi Saving Bank despite stiff opposition from most Malawians including politicians and civil rights groups.

The President has also been blamed for the sinking economy and his failure to take charge of the country.

Mutharika, 75, however said Malawians don’t love their country and urged them to be patriotic to their nation.

“My Government will leave no stone unturned in its efforts to fulfill its promises to Malawians,” said Mutharika.

Recently, State House threatened to drag former aide to late president Bingu wa Mutharika to court for his open criticism to Mutharika. The President has also sued Nyasa Times for defamation for reporting claims made by Ntata.

The President touted achievements of his administration since he took power a year ago and what his government intend to do in the next four years and according to the President these include;

1. The reconstruction of the Mzuzu – Nkhatabay road. The identification of a contractor to carry out the works is at an advanced stage and works will start shortly. This road project has been financed by the African Development Bank;
2. The reconstruction of the Liwonde – Mangochi road. The construction works will also start shortly this year with financing from the African Development Bank;
3. Reconstruction of the M1 road from Karonga to Songwe border with financing from the World Bank.
4. The completion of the Lumbadzi to Dowa Road with our own resources.

He said a number of feasibility studies will be done this year of several roads to prepare for eventual construction works in a few years’ time.

“Good roads improve the welfare of Malawians by providing improved accessibility and mobility and access to socio-economic activities and services,” stated Mutharika.

He said the development agenda of the DPP government is stated “very clearly” in the Malawi Growth and Development Strategy (MGDS) which, among other priority areas has placed the development of road infrastructure as one of the priority areas in order to provide improved access and mobility for the people of Malawi especially those living in rural areas.