By Burnett Munthali
Vice President and leader of the Odya Zake Alibe Mulandu movement, Dr. Michael Usi, is making headlines for his deliberate and community-centered approach to politics, choosing direct citizen engagement over conventional high-profile rallies.
Currently touring Mulanje District, Dr. Usi is taking time to visit government-funded projects and interact with citizens where they live and work.
His primary focus is on informal traders and small-scale businesses, whom he describes as the backbone of Malawi’s economy.
Earlier today, Dr. Usi paid a visit to Mulanje Main Market, where he interacted with local vendors, bought goods, and spent time listening to the challenges they face in their daily operations.
He emphasized the importance of empowering small businesses as a key driver of national development.
The Vice President also encouraged Malawians, particularly rural entrepreneurs, to take advantage of government-backed financial schemes like the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF).
He highlighted that NEEF provides interest-free loans aimed at stimulating entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency in underserved communities.
Later in the day, Dr. Usi addressed a crowd at Misanjo Ground, where he launched a scathing critique of politicians who, according to him, make grand speeches but fail to deliver tangible change.
“Some politicians talk too much but do nothing to help struggling Malawians,” he told the gathering, drawing applause from supporters.
Dr. Usi then proceeded to Mulanje Depot Market, where he once again prioritized face-to-face engagement with market traders, reinforcing his grassroots strategy by making purchases and offering words of encouragement.
His visits are being widely interpreted as a reaffirmation of his belief in bottom-up development that places ordinary citizens at the center of national progress.
In a separate meeting held at Chinyama Ground in the Mulanje Bale constituency, Dr. Usi shifted his focus to issues of governance and accountability.
He openly accused certain civil servants—particularly those aligned with opposition parties—of intentionally sabotaging government development programs.
Dr. Usi issued a stern warning, stating that those found obstructing government efforts would be dealt with accordingly.
He added that if necessary, such individuals would be removed or reshuffled to ensure that essential services reach communities without delay.
The Vice President’s tough stance reflects his commitment to results-driven leadership and his increasing resolve to root out inefficiencies within public service.
As the 2025 elections draw nearer, Dr. Usi’s blend of humility, accessibility, and no-nonsense rhetoric is resonating with many Malawians who are tired of political theatrics and desperate for real change.
Whether his approach will redefine Malawi’s political culture remains to be seen, but for now, one thing is clear: Dr. Michael Usi is speaking directly to the people—and they are listening.
