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Bon Kalindo sounds the alarm: A call for leadership accountability in Malawi

By Burnett Munthali
On Monday, February 3, 2025, Malawian social activist Bon Kalindo, popularly known as “The DC,” released a powerful audio message addressing the country’s deepening socio-economic crisis. In his address, Kalindo, who had refrained from making public statements in the preceding two days, explained that he had been conducting extensive research to ensure that his messages were factual and truly representative of the reality on the ground. His latest statement, however, was one of urgency and frustration, reflecting the grievances of ordinary Malawians.
Kalindo began by sharing his firsthand observations from various parts of the country, where he had engaged with communities to understand their daily struggles. One of the most striking issues he raised was the prevalence of witchcraft, which he described as a serious concern affecting many communities. He went further to allege that politicians were among those involved in the practice, using it for power and influence. This assertion not only added to his broader critique of the country’s leadership but also underscored the widespread belief that corruption and manipulation extend beyond the political arena and into the spiritual realm.

However, the most alarming part of Kalindo’s address was his reflection on the extreme poverty afflicting Malawians. Having visited remote villages to assess conditions, he was deeply moved by the dire lack of access to basic needs such as clean water, food, proper housing, and sanitation facilities. He expressed particular concern over the Central Region, where he witnessed shocking levels of poverty. Ironically, some of the most impoverished areas were those from which President Lazarus Chakwera hails. Kalindo urged those close to the President to convey these harsh realities to him, warning that if the suffering of Malawians continues to be ignored, it could result in widespread unrest. The people’s patience, he argued, was running out, and their growing anger could soon reach a boiling point.
Kalindo also took aim at cabinet ministers, accusing them of being disconnected from the struggles of ordinary citizens. He questioned whether those in leadership positions, who frequently boast of their achievements on national television, truly understand the economic hardships that Malawians endure daily. He noted that while city dwellers are struggling, their conditions are still relatively better compared to those in rural areas, where extreme poverty is taking a devastating toll.
One of the most shocking observations he shared was from Manje in Blantyre, where he witnessed desperate individuals consuming treated maize seed meant for planting. The health risks of consuming chemically treated maize are well-documented, yet hunger and desperation have pushed people to such extremes. This, Kalindo argued, is proof of the government’s failure to address food insecurity, despite officials frequently claiming that maize is available in adequate quantities. He criticized these misleading statements, saying they only serve to cover up the harsh reality on the ground.
Kalindo also expressed dismay over the recent 16% hike in electricity tariffs, questioning the government’s justification for such an increase when many Malawians are already struggling with high costs of living. Additionally, he condemned the reappointment of a dismissed cabinet minister to a board position in a statutory company, seeing it as further proof of the systemic problems within government leadership.
In a passionate critique, he accused many of Malawi’s leaders of having forgotten their humble beginnings. According to Kalindo, many of these politicians once knew the pain of poverty but have now distanced themselves from the very people they once represented. Their arrogance and insensitivity toward the struggles of Malawians, he warned, would not go unnoticed. He further issued a stern caution to the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP), warning that if they attempt to rig the upcoming 2025 elections, they will face serious resistance from a disillusioned population. The people, he said, are no longer willing to accept deceitful governance.
Despite his criticisms, Kalindo had words of praise for the Minister of Labor, Vitumbiko Mumba, whom he described as a “game changer” due to his proactive approach to addressing labor-related issues. However, he advised Mumba against mixing government responsibilities with political slogans, urging him to also address concerns within government departments, where employees often face mistreatment and poor working conditions.
Kalindo also took issue with Malawi’s continued dependence on foreign aid, arguing that the country must strive for self-reliance. He criticized leaders for frequently traveling abroad in search of financial assistance instead of focusing on domestic solutions to economic challenges. He pointed to neighboring Tanzania as an example of a country that has successfully pursued development through effective leadership and strategic economic policies.
In conclusion, Kalindo painted a bleak picture of the current state of Malawi, expressing grave concern over the persistent poverty and suffering of its people. He suggested that the current leadership should consider stepping down, as they have failed to deliver meaningful change. Furthermore, he issued a warning against any attempts to manipulate the upcoming elections, predicting that such actions would only lead to nationwide turmoil. His final message was a plea for the leadership to listen to the voices of the oppressed and to address the country’s challenges with honesty and integrity before it is too late.
Bon Kalindo’s latest message is yet another call for action that Malawi’s leaders cannot afford to ignore. Whether the government will respond with concrete measures remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: the voices of the people, amplified by activists like Kalindo, are growing louder, and their demand for accountability is stronger than ever.