Minister of Information, Communications Technology and Civic Education Patricia Kaliati has trashed reports by Malawi News exposing ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) ‘old habits’ of ferrying its supporters in State Vehicle to its meeting, saying the story is untrue.

On June 4, 2016, Malawi News carried a story titled ‘DPP ferries supporters in government vehicle’.

In the article, the paper reported that he party used a Nissan Hard Body vehicle registration number MG 731 AF belonging to the Department of Forestry in the Ministry of Natural Resources, Energy and Mining to carry its supporters to the place of the rally in Chitipa.

The paper quoted Chief Secretary to Government, Mr. George Mkondiwa and Secretary for Natural Resources and, Energy and Mining, Mr. Kester Kaphaizi who all expressed ignorance on the matter.

Reacting to the story, Kaliati accused Malawi News of sensationalizing the issue.

“We believe the fact that both the Government and DPP distanced themselves from the alleged incident should have been enough for the Malawi News to stop painting the party and Government of abuse of tax payers’ money.

“Government would like to reiterate that it is the policy of the DPP administration, led by His Excellency President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, to clearly separate government and party functions,” said Kaliati.

Added Kalitati: “The Public Sector Reforms under implementation will go ahead and will not be derailed by a few misguided individuals as well as a hyped up press bent on discrediting government at each and every turn notwithstanding the good progress the country is making under the DPP led administration.”

Meanwhile Kaliati’s remarks have attracted mixed reactions on the social media with accusing her of diverting from the truth.