By The Forum

President Peter Mutharika returned home on Monday following a two-week private visit to the Republic of South Africa.

Mutharika, who was accompanied by First Lady Gertrude Mutharika, was welcomed on arrival by Minister of Foreign Affairs George Chaponda, Chief Secretary to the Government Justin Saidi, and other senior government officials.

A private trip to a country known for advanced medical facilities — frequently visited by prominent figures from the region and across Africa for specialized care — sparked speculation about the health of the 85-year-old leader, with opposition figures and members of the public urging the government to be more transparent.

Last week, Umodzi Party (UP) president Thomas Wezzie Kaumba demanded that Mutharika cut short his visit and return home to address pressing national issues.

“What is President Peter Mutharika doing in South Africa?” Kaumba asked. “Malawians who pay his salary are entitled to know the truth from the government. We therefore ask the President to immediately return to Malawi and perform his presidential duties.”

Kaumba cited challenges in the implementation of the Farm Input Subsidy Programme (FISP) as critical issues that required the President’s direct involvement.

Other critics described the trip as a waste of public resources and inconsistent with the austerity measures the Mutharika administration has promoted since returning to power following its victory in the September 15, 2025 elections.

Mutharika left the country on December 1, 2025, delegating presidential authority to Vice President Jane Ansah during his absence.

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