As the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) prepares to hold elections on September 16, former President and People’s Party (PP) leader, Dr. Joyce Banda, has pledged to prioritize the economic upliftment of Malawians if elected.
Dr. Banda emphasized that among all the candidates contesting, none offers better policies for improving livelihoods than those advanced by her party. She appealed to voters to give her another mandate, saying her previous leadership outshone that of the two other former presidents also seeking a return to power.
Reflecting on her past tenure, Dr. Banda said essential commodities such as fuel and sugar were readily available and affordable under her administration.
She stressed that rural communities, where 85% of Malawians reside, face the toughest economic challenges. If elected, she pledged to roll out job creation initiatives in these areas, including cash-for-work programs to provide income and improve living standards.
Dr. Banda also outlined measures targeting youth empowerment. She promised opportunities for young people to work abroad, vocational training centers to equip them with practical skills, and free motorcycles to help them establish transport businesses.
On social welfare, the former president vowed to construct one million houses for the underprivileged and elderly, noting that the projects would also generate rural employment.
“I have already secured support from foreign countries and international organizations to assist Malawi economically, including fuel and medical supplies to ensure our hospitals are well-stocked with medicines,” she said.
Dr. Banda further promised to introduce free secondary school education to reduce the financial burden on parents.
