Former Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera reflected on the heavy costs of reform during his time in office. Elected in 2020 on an anti-corruption platform, he quickly faced overlapping crises—from COVID-19 to devastating cyclones and droughts—that strained Malawi’s economy and livelihoods.
Chakwera admitted that tackling entrenched corruption made him a target, noting: “The fight you engage in fights back.” He defended his reform agenda, stressing that structural change takes time and often clashes with public expectations for quick results. He also highlighted the difficulty of sticking to the rule of law, saying it can “punish you as well.”
Despite losing re-election, Chakwera pointed to Malawi’s peaceful vote and transfer of power as proof of democratic progress. Now leading the opposition Malawi Congress Party, he remains committed to public service and hinted at a possible future political role.
source: Newestimehub
