CHILIMA BACKS MW2063 AS AN ASSET TO DEVELOPMENT

By Aamon Butao & Esther Manduwa 

In his maiden appearance before Parliament on Thursday to answer questions from Legislators, Vice President Dr Saulos Chilima has heaped praise on Malawi 2063 as a fundamental asset to develop the country. 

On Thursday, Chilima said the Tonse Alliance government will focus on flagship programs to boost the county’s economy.

Chilima said Malawi 2063’s predecessor, Vision 2020 failed due to lack of proper guidance and finance.

"2020 Vision focused on poverty reduction while Malawi 2063 seeks to achieve sustainable wealth creation," said Chilima.

According to Chilima, who is also Ministry of Economic Planning, Development and Public Sector Reforms, said the National Planning Commission will hold duty bearers accountable in the implementation of Malawi 2063.

The Vice President added that through innovative ideas, government will generate resources to fully fund various projects targeted under the sixty-four paged document.

Whilst maintaining government will honor all campaign pledges, Chilima said authorities will focus on commercialized agriculture, mining and adoption of technology for wealth creation.

He urged political parties to align manifestoes with Malawi 2063.

"Going forward all regimes should be working in line with the Malawi 2063 beacause it represents the aspirations of Malawians reached after thorough consultations with different stakeholders," explained Chilima.

Meanwhile member of Parliament for Mzimba North Yeremia Chihana was thrown out of Parliament for indiscipline when Vice President Dr Saulos Chilima appeared before Parliament. 

Chihana asked President Lazarus Chakwera to fire Secretary to the President and Cabinet Zangazanga Chikhosi for misleading Chakwera in the suspension of principal secretaries in the wake of alleged mismanagement of Six point Two Billion Kwacha Covid-19 funds.

Chihana also argued Chilima has no constitutional mandate to hold the Ministry of Economic Planning, Development and Public Sector Reforms.

First Deputy Speaker of Parliament Madalitso Kazombo has since ordered the Legislator to return to Parliament on Monday.