A planned post-Christmas trip to the United Kingdom by Malawi’s Vice President, Jane Ansah, is sparking public outrage over its reported cost and the size of her delegation.

While the Vice President’s office confirms the private visit, it is strongly contesting reports circulating in Malawian media alleging the trip will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. The controversy began with the circulation of a letter, purportedly leaked from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by Secretary Chauncy Simwaka, detailing a 15-member entourage accompanying Ms. Ansah.

The government, which assumed office in October, has been vocal about its commitment to economic prudence and has already implemented austerity measures. This has led to accusations of hypocrisy, with critics pointing to the planned trip as a contradiction of the administration’s stated policies.

According to a statement released by the Vice President’s Press Secretary, Richard Mveriwa, “These documents did not originate from any government institution and do not reflect official records or approved government expenditures.” He further stated, “The Office of the Vice President remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the responsible use of public resources, and strongly condemns the deliberate spread of false information intended to mislead the public.”

However, Mr. Mveriwa did not address the composition of the delegation, which reports suggest includes two accountants, four security personnel, three personal assistants, and other officials. This silence has fuelled further criticism.

The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has weighed in, describing the reported delegation size as “deeply troubling, particularly given that the trip is explicitly described as private yet appears to be financed using public resources.”

Vice President Ansah served as the running mate to President Peter Mutharika, who won the September elections promising a “return to proven leadership” and improved economic management compared to the previous administration led by Lazarus Chakwera.

President Mutharika, upon his swearing-in, pledged to be a careful steward of public funds, stating his government would not be a “feast” for officials and supporters. The HRDC argues that the UK trip, scheduled to begin on December 26th, is a clear “double standard”.

“While Malawians are continuously urged to tighten their belts, endure hardship and accept reduced public services in the name of fiscal discipline, senior political leaders appear to exempt themselves from these very principles,” the HRDC said in a statement. The organisation’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among the Malawian public questioning the government’s commitment to austerity.

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