By: Kassim Kajosolo
Malawi’s Vice President, Dr. Jane Ansah, SC, Justice of Appeal (Retired), has reportedly reduced the size of her delegation for a private visit to the United Kingdom following widespread public criticism over the cost of the trip.
The visit, which many have linked to celebrations marking her husband’s 80th birthday in the UK, has attracted both local and international scrutiny, with critics questioning the logic and timing of the travel arrangements amid government calls for austerity measures.
Initial reports indicated that the vice president was set to travel with a delegation of 15 people. However, Minister of Information, Shadric Namalomba who is also the government mouthpiece, told local media on Tuesday that Ansah will now travel with only five officials.
The move comes after reports suggested that as much as K2 billion could be drawn from public funds to finance the trip, claims that sparked outrage, particularly at a time when government leaders have urged strict control of public expenditure.
President Peter Mutharika, who assumed office alongside Ansah following the September 16, 2025 general elections, has repeatedly pledged to manage the economy through cost-cutting measures, including reducing both local and international travel by senior officials.
Despite confirming the reduction in the delegation size, Minister Namalomba did not disclose the revised budget for the trip, leaving lingering doubts about whether the cost concerns raised by the public have been fully addressed.