Malawi’s government has finally addressed questions over the whereabouts of President Peter Mutharika, insisting he is in good health and enjoying a private trip to South Africa.
In a statement issued on Friday 23 October 2026, Minister of Information and Communications Technology Dr Shadric Namalomba said the government had “noted public speculation” about the President’s location and wanted to reassure the nation.
“His Excellency is on a private trip in South Africa. He is in good health and is enjoying his time there,” the statement said.
The admission that the trip has taken longer than usual will fuel further debate.
The statement said the President had “taken slightly more time than usual” on the visit, which “has created room for speculation.”
Government said Malawians had “no cause for concern”.
The statement gave no date for Mutharika’s return, saying only that he would come home “when the time comes”.
It added that, should he suffer any health problem while abroad, citizens would be told “in good time through official channels”.
The government also urged the public to avoid speculation and rely only on verified information.
The statement comes after days of criticism over the silence from the top.
Newspapers and opposition parties have questioned why the trip was not explained earlier, and who is handling urgent national matters in the President’s absence.
The Malawi Congress Party has called on Vice-President Jane Ansah to address the nation.
With fuel shortages, power cuts and medicine stocks under strain, the government’s assurances will be closely watched.
For now, Malawians are left with a clear message from Lilongwe: the President is well, and he will return when he is ready.
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