There was a time when South Africa was simply our neighbour. Today, it seems to have become Malawi’s unofficial State House annexe. The President visits so often that he could probably qualify for a frequent traveller discount.
President Peter Mutharika has once again departed for what the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) describes as a “Private Visit” to South Africa. If you have lost count, don’t blame yourself. This is reportedly the fourth private visit to the same country since he assumed office.
“Welcome back, Your Excellency,” they might say. “The usual lounge? The usual motorcade?
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Shall we keep your favourite parking bay ready?” The puzzle lies in that wonderfully convenient little word: private. Private is becoming one of the hardest-working words in government vocabulary. It answers every question without actually answering any.
Well… that question suddenly becomes even more private. It is almost magical. One word, and every uncomfortable question disappears into thin air.
The President of Malawi stopped being a private citizen the moment he took the oath of office. He occupies the country’s highest public office. His movements involve security officers, intelligence personnel, protocol officials, aircraft, fuel, logistics and enough planning to organise a small military exercise. Even if part of the trip is genuinely personal, somebody still pays for the aircraft, the security team, the advance party and everyone whose job is to ensure that the Head of State travels safely.
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