This archive report was first published on 9 July 2020.
Malawi's new President Lazarus Chakwera has been accused of nepotism after appointing a cabinet with several family members and close friends.
Chakwera, who was elected in June 2020, has named his friends and family members to key positions in the government, sparking widespread criticism.
Among those appointed are Sidik Mia, the Transport Minister, and his wife Abida Mia, the Deputy Minister of Land. Their niece, Halima Alima Daud, is the Deputy Minister of Local Government.
Chakwera has also appointed his friend, Kenny Kandodo, as the Labour Minister, while his sister, Khumbize, is the Health Minister. The new Health Minister owns the biggest pharmacies in Malawi, raising concerns about conflict of interest.
Businessman Gospel Kazako has been appointed as the Information Minister, and his sister-in-law, Agnes Nkusa Nkhoma, is the Deputy Agriculture Minister.
Former President Joyce Banda's son, Roy Kachale-Banda, has also been appointed as the Minister for Industry.
A grouping called Youth for Change (YFC) has planned nationwide demonstrations against what it describes as a 'false cabinet'.
