Update on IMF Talks: Information and Communications Technology Minister Shadric Namalomba released a statement on October 8 dismissing rumours that the government is negotiating a devaluation of the Malawi Kwacha with the International Monetary Fund, according to Nyasa Times. Following the conclusion of the IMF's recent mission, Namalomba clarified that currency devaluation is not on the agenda for the current Extended Credit Facility negotiations. He urged the public and businesses to avoid speculation as the government works to address foreign exchange shortages.
In traditional leadership news, President Peter Mutharika has officially removed Bongololo Gondwe as Paramount Chief Chikulamayembe of the Tumbuka people and replaced him with Mtima Gondwe, Nation Online reports. Secretary for Local Government and Rural Development Moses Chimphepo stated that the dismissal was enacted under the Chiefs Act due to concerns that Bongololo was appointed without following Tumbuka cultural succession traditions. Bongololo's legal team confirmed receipt of the dismissal letter and is currently reviewing the decision.
Update on Parliament Probes: A legal standoff over parliamentary oversight reached the High Court on October 8 as Judge Allan Hans Muhome began hearing a judicial review concerning 12 joint committees formed to investigate public sector governance, according to Nation Online. Speaker of the National Assembly Sameer Suleman and Parliament are defending their constitutional authority to conduct the probes against an application filed by a private citizen. The Malawi Law Society has officially joined the case as a friend of the court to provide guidance on the Speaker's oversight powers.
Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Committee on Commissions, Statutory Corporations and State Enterprises questioned officials from the Malawi Energy Regulatory Authority and the Roads Fund Administration on October 8 regarding K173 billion in outstanding road levy arrears, Malawi24 reports. While the unpaid balance has decreased from December 2025, officials warned that the delayed remittances have already negatively impacted road maintenance, contractor payments, and the rollout of new tollgates across the country.