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President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika on Tuesday officially opened the MK3.9 billion Lilongwe City West By-pass road funded by African Development Bank.
The road which is part of the Nacala Corridor project is expected to reduce traffic congestion in the capital.
In his speech, Mutharika accused the Opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP) of having nothing to offer for Malawians.
“There are some people who don’t want to see development in this country. People who don’t wish you well. That is why they are saying all sorts of things against me.
“They know that once they allow us complete our projects, we will be unbeatable in 2019. But nothing, and nobody, will stop us from developing this country,” said Mutharika.
Mutharika said MCP failed to develop the country in its 30 years rule.
Turning to the event, Mutharika said he wants to make Lilongwe a different place in Malawi.
“I want Lilongwe to be a different place in a Malawi that is different. Yes, the Green Belt will bring us sufficient food and end hunger. Yes, community colleges and skills development will create jobs and businesses for us. Indeed, the malata subsidy project will give our people decent homes. And yes, direct investment will bring money to Malawi. But we also need a good road network. And this must start from the heart of the country.
“In August this year, we launched the construction of the Kasiya–Santhe Road. Construction work is now in progress. We cannot have a capital city in a district whose communities are locked away from the city. That, I cannot accept!” said Mutharika.
Mutharika also urged the surrounding communities to desist from vandalizing road signs.
“But as we open this road, let me appeal to the surrounding communities to be proud of this development and desist from vandalizing. And let me strongly warn those who attack travelers on this road. Mr Inspector General of Police, deal with those thugs and bring them to justice. And make every traveler is safe on this road. This is an order!!” said Mutharika.
