Malawi at a Crossroads: Former President Joyce Banda Calls for Fresh Vision in Upcoming Elections
As Malawi gears up for its general elections on September 16, 2025, former President and People’s Party (PP) leader Dr. Joyce Banda has issued a powerful call to action, urging citizens to demand a new direction for the country. Speaking to a enthusiastic crowd in Lilongwe, Banda declared that Malawi is struggling under the weight of poor leadership, staggering debt, and toxic politics, leaving its people without hope.
"We cannot continue like this," Banda emphasized, calling on voters to use the upcoming election as a reset button. She pledged that under her leadership, a PP government would implement practical and urgent reforms to address the country’s pressing issues. These include ensuring no fuel shortages, providing free secondary school education, and empowering women and youth through economic training and skills development.
Banda, who led Malawi from 2012 to 2014, highlighted her work through the Joyce Banda Foundation, which has helped women acquire practical business skills to improve their family livelihoods. "If we are serious about national development, we must empower women," she stressed. "No country moves forward while leaving its mothers behind."
The former president also called on traditional leaders to take an active role in youth and women’s development, emphasizing that the time for ceremonial leadership is over. "Chiefs must rise to the challenge and lead development in their communities," she added. Banda’s campaign director, Chris Daza, dismissed any connection between her and the infamous cashgate scandal, saying that she is not implicated in any way and that such claims are meant to destroy her image.
As the clock ticks down to the 2025 general elections, Banda’s message rings louder than ever: Malawi cannot afford business as usual. It’s time for new leadership with bold solutions, and for Banda, that time is now. With the People’s Party continuing to attract new members from other parties, momentum is building behind her growing comeback campaign. As Banda herself said, "I’m not seeking position for the sake of position. I am here because I want to see Malawi change. That is the only reason I am running again."
