MALAWI: Lilongwe City Council Rejects Ras Chikomeni Chirwa’s Fundraising Permit

By Smile Hamilton, Malawi 

Ras Chikomeni Chirwa, an independent presidential aspirant, has been denied a permit by the Lilongwe City Council to hold a fundraising event on March 11, 2025.

The event aimed to raise funds for his presidential campaign, which he plans to use to contest in the September 16, 2025, elections.

According to a letter signed by Council Chairman Macdonald Kadam’manja, Chirwa is required to submit his application to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) for approval.

However, Chirwa has expressed dissatisfaction with the council’s decision, stating that it will not deter him from proceeding with his fundraising efforts.

Chirwa, who was previously rejected by the MEC in the 2019 polls, has been actively preparing for his 2025 presidential bid.

He has been raising money for the nomination fees and gathering support across the country.

As part of his campaign, Chirwa plans to legalize Indian Hemp, also known as marijuana, which he believes will boost Malawi’s economy.

The rejection of Chirwa’s permit application has sparked debate among Malawians, with some expressing support for the council’s decision and others arguing that it is an infringement on Chirwa’s rights.

The development has also raised questions about the role of local councils in regulating political activities and the potential impact on the upcoming elections.

Chirwa’s campaign has been gaining momentum in recent months, with many Malawians expressing interest in his unconventional approach to politics.

His proposal to legalize marijuana has sparked intense debate, with some arguing that it could generate significant revenue for the country and others expressing concerns about its potential impact on public health.

As the elections draw closer, Chirwa’s campaign is expected to gain more attention.

The outcome of his permit application and the subsequent fundraising event will be closely watched by Malawians and political analysts alike.