By Mercy Matonga:
President Peter Mutharika has extended Christmas wishes to Malawians, as Christians in the country celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.
In a response made through Press Secretary Cathy Maulidi yesterday, Mutharika said he would spend his first Christmas after resuming office with family and close friends.
“The President extends a heartfelt message of hope, unity and resilience to all Malawians. He calls upon citizens to celebrate responsibly while remembering those who continue to face hardships within our communities,” Maulidi said.
Mutharika also urged Malawians to uphold peace throughout the festivities so that they can welcome the New Year with renewed dedication to hard work and patriotism “as we, together, continue the journey of rebuilding our nation”.
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The President described 2025 as “The Year of Rescuing the Nation”, acknowledging that it has been a year of profound transition, marked by 4Fs: shortages of food, fuel, forex and fertiliser.
“Since assuming office [again] in October [this year], His Excellency has devoted his focus and energy to addressing the systemic challenges facing our country. He looks to 2026 with great expectation and [is] determined to restore economic stability and uplift the living standards of every Malawian,” Maulidi said.
In a separate message, former president Bakili Muluzi said Christmas is a time of joy, love, and togetherness.
Muluzi said he would be spending this festive period celebrating with my family and dear friends, reflecting on the blessings of the past year and the promise of the year ahead.
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“While we celebrate, I urge all citizens to do so with moderation and care. Let us look out for one another by celebrating responsibly. Please avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Let us maintain the dignity of our celebrations and ensure our homes remain places of peace,” Muluzi said.
He further asked Malawians to put the election period behind them and focus on developing the country’s democracy, indicating that there is a time for competition and a time for cohesion.
“Our primary focus must be [on] the development of our great nation. We are one people, with one destiny. Let us set aside our political differences and move forward as a united front to build a Malawi that provides opportunity and hope to every citizen,” Muluzi said.
Former president Lazarus Chakwera said, through spokesperson Gift Nankhuni, that he would keep Malawians in his prayers.
“He will be spending Christmas with his family and he wishes all Malawians a Merry Christmas. He has them in his prayers,” Nankhuni said.
UTM spokesperson Felix Njawala said party president Dalitso Kabambe would use the time for reflection, prayer and gratitude after a demanding year of public service and engagement.
“The president also plans to visit some of the less fortunate [people] in hospitals and other settings to share what he can as a personal expression of thanksgiving for the many blessings he has received,” Njawala said.
