Business operators and members of the public in Blantyre have expressed excitement after seeing former President Professor Peter Mutharika depart Sanjika State House for Lilongwe by road.
The traders said many Malawians expect leaders to adopt modest and cost-effective means of travel, rather than spending public resources on luxury transport, especially at a time when the country faces economic challenges and relies on external assistance.
Despite rainy conditions along parts of the route, large crowds gathered under shop verandas and along the roadside to catch a glimpse of the former president and to dismiss rumours circulating in some quarters that he is unwell.
Mutharika’s convoy moved at a moderate speed, allowing him to wave at cheering supporters who had gathered at several points along the road.
Many of the onlookers responded enthusiastically, with some expressing relief at seeing him in person and appearing in good health.
The road trip attracted attention from both traders and passersby, turning the journey into a public spectacle in some trading centre
