MCP to Pay MK666 Million in Nomination Fees for 228 MP and 480 Council Aspirants; a Matter of Public Concern

As Malawi grapples with a deepening economic crisis, with citizens struggling to make ends meet, civil servants and security agencies pleading for salary increases, and hospitals running out of essential medicines.

The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has announced plans to pay MK666 million in nomination fees for its parliamentary and local government candidates, this publication can reveal.

According to a private communication seen by this publication, the party will cover fees for all its candidates contesting in the 2025 elections.

The message reads: “Good afternoon Hon Members, I have some good news. Please take note that the Party will pay nomination fees for ALL its candidates at all contested levels. The Secretariat will make further administrative announcements.”

The breakdown of the fees is as follows: MK2.5 million for each of the 228 parliamentary aspirants, totaling MK570 million, and MK200,000 for each of the 480 councilor aspirants, totaling MK96 million.

This revelation has raised serious questions among citizens and watchdog organizations about the source of these funds, especially given the party’s failure to disclose its financing mechanisms.

The timing has added to public outrage, as Malawi’s poverty index has worsened over the past five years, slipping from position 75 to 80 globally despite government promises of economic reform.

Critics argue that the MCP’s financial decision is tone-deaf in a country burdened by corruption, poor economic management, and growing inequality. Several scandals have rocked the Chakwera administration, involving alleged siphoning of public funds. Yet, no significant action has been taken against those implicated.

In a further blow to confidence in the government, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently cancelled its credit facility for Malawi, citing concerns over financial mismanagement, policy failures, and persistent corruption.

The MCP’s move has left many Malawians shocked and demanding accountability. In a climate where most citizens are suffering and public services are deteriorating, the party’s ability to mobilize such significant resources has intensified calls for transparency and independent audits.

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