Shadric Namalomba refutes Maravi Post’s claims on Mutharika’s health, cites robust schedule ahead

By Burnett Munthali

Shadric Namalomba, spokesperson for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has firmly denied recent Maravi Post reports suggesting that former President and DPP leader Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika is unwell. The allegations, which claim Mutharika postponed his voter registration in Thyolo due to health concerns, were met with a swift rebuttal from Namalomba, who stated that Mutharika remains “fit like a fiddle.”

In an official statement, Namalomba shared details of Mutharika’s upcoming engagements as evidence of his well-being, highlighting that the former president is scheduled to preside over the DPP’s orientation workshop for newly elected National Governing Council (NGC) members on Friday. Furthermore, Mutharika is slated to attend the party’s fundraising dinner the following day, showcasing his ongoing active involvement in party activities.

Namalomba noted that Mutharika’s recent schedule has been filled with community-focused visits, including stops in two constituencies in Machinga where he distributed food items to those in need. “The President’s resilience and commitment to the welfare of Malawians is unwavering,” Namalomba emphasized, adding that the former president continues to prioritize the party’s mission and the well-being of its supporters.

The report in question, authored by Khama Kadzakumanja of Maravi Post, claimed that Mutharika’s physician, Dr. Kingsley Magomero, had been called to Page House to attend to the former president due to a potential recurrence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), a condition allegedly linked to his age. However, Namalomba refuted this, dismissing the claims as “unverified and speculative.”

The incident has added to ongoing criticism of Maravi Post’s journalistic standards. Former President Joyce Banda recently shared her own frustrations with what she described as “fake news” propagated by the outlet, singling out a report alleging her involvement in secret talks with UDF leader Atupele Muluzi, PDP’s Kondwani Nankhumwa, and MCP regarding a possible 2025 political alliance. Banda expressed disappointment in the spread of “baseless rumors,” urging the media to prioritize factual reporting over speculation.

“As journalists, the responsibility to provide the public with verified and accurate information is paramount,” Banda emphasized. She also applauded journalists who conduct careful reporting, acknowledging that reliable news strengthens democratic discourse and informs the nation.

In her remarks, Banda encouraged the media to focus on more pressing issues affecting Malawians, such as the electoral process, where the People’s Party has joined other political parties in expressing concerns. She stressed that these topics deserve public attention, urging the press to delve into matters of national significance.

As for Maravi Post, public trust in its reporting standards continues to waver. The publication has yet to issue a clarification or correction regarding the Mutharika health story, and readers are awaiting further updates. Meanwhile, Namalomba’s strong defense of Mutharika’s health and vigor reflects the DPP’s stance against what it views as misleading narratives that may distort public perceptions ahead of the 2025 election season.