National Advocacy Platform (NAP) chairperson Benedicto Kondowe has dismissed the Malawi Congress Party’s call for Vice-President Jane Ansah to address the nation during President Arthur Peter Mutharika’s private trip abroad, describing it as unnecessary and potentially misleading.
Kondowe said the President’s temporary absence does not create a leadership vacuum or automatically transfer presidential powers to the Vice-President.
Citing Sections 79 and 92(3) of the Constitution, the lawyer said while Ansah can perform specific duties, there is no requirement for her to address the nation whenever the President travels.
He argued that government continues to function through established institutions regardless of the President’s location.
“MCP’s call risks creating an unwarranted perception of a constitutional or leadership vacuum where none exists,” Kondowe said.
He urged political leaders to focus on pressing issues such as the cost of living, forex shortages and public service delivery rather than politicising routine presidential travel.
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