NAP Challenges Parliament to Deliver Solutions to Cost of Living Crisis in 52nd Sitting

The National Advocacy Platform (NAP), a grouping of more than 100 Civil Society Organisations, has challenged Parliament to find solutions to the economic hardships Malawians are facing during the Third Meeting of the 52nd Session of Parliament.

In a statement titled “Putting Citizens First: Strengthening Accountability, Oversight and Collective Solutions for Malawi’s Challenges” NAP Chairperson Benedicto Kondowe said citizens are grappling with daily livelihood challenges.

The sitting runs from 7th to 30th July 2026.

“This sitting comes at a critical moment when Malawians expect Parliament to exercise its mandate of representation, oversight and accountability, while driving collective solutions to national challenges,” reads the statement.

According to NAP, as the voice of the people and guardian of public interest, Parliament must go beyond demanding accountability and advance practical solutions that improve livelihoods, strengthen governance and restore public confidence.

Key demands from NAP:

1. Economy and Cost of Living

NAP has urged Parliament to interrogate the state of the economy and rising cost of living.
“Malawians continue to struggle with high commodity prices, shrinking disposable incomes, punitive taxation, and persistent foreign exchange shortages affecting businesses and households. At a time when citizens are contributing through multiple taxes, Parliament must deliberate economic measures that deliver relief, productivity and sustainable growth,” the statement reads.

2. Agriculture and Food Security

Parliament must also discuss preparedness for the next growing season, particularly the availability, affordability and timely distribution of fertiliser.
“Agriculture remains central to food security and livelihoods, and any delays in planning risk exposing the country to avoidable food insecurity,” Kondowe said.

3. Public University Financing

NAP has called for urgent action on the public university financing crisis following a 100 percent tuition fee increase.
“While universities require sustainable financing, access to higher education must remain equitable. With public universities requiring approximately K536.7 billion and receiving only K133.6 billion, about 25 percent, in Government funding, Parliament must push for increased investment, strengthened student loan support, and clear protection mechanisms for needy and deserving students.”

4. Malawians in South Africa

NAP has asked Parliament to demand accountability on the plight of Malawians affected by xenophobic attacks in South Africa.
“Government must provide clear information on how many citizens have been repatriated, how many remain in need of assistance, the resources spent so far, and whether planned budgetary support has been secured,” reads the statement.

5. CDF and PSPTF Issues

NAP has also demanded clarity on Constituency Development Fund (CDF) disbursements following the passing of the national budget.
It further called for closure on the Amaryllis Hotel acquisition by the Public Service Pension Trust Fund (PSPTF) through the tabling and release of the Public Accounts Committee inquiry report.

6. US$1.2 Million Cash Interception

In a rare show of solidarity, NAP said Parliament must demand answers on the US$1.2 million intercepted by the Malawi Police Service while being transported to Tanzania.

“Continued silence undermines public confidence. Malawians deserve transparency on the ownership of the money, status of investigations, legal processes undertaken and the final resolution of the matter,” the statement reads.

Call to Action

NAP says Parliament must remain a true guardian of public interest.

“Oversight is not confrontation. It is a constitutional duty to ensure that power is exercised responsibly, resources are protected, and citizens’ concerns are addressed.”

The statement, signed by Benedicto Kondowe and Baxton Nkhoma, concludes:

“NAP calls upon Members of Parliament across political divides to put Malawi first. At a time when citizens are facing difficult economic realities, the country needs a Parliament that asks tough questions, demands accountability, and delivers solutions.”