Goliati-Chiperoni Road named after Bingu

Malawi President Bingu wa Mutharika on Sunday accepted to name the new Malowa-Goliati-Chiperoni Road after him, following recommendations from Minister of Transport and Public Infrastructure Sidik Mia.

He expressed gratitude and pride to the suggestion.

Said Mutharika: “I am behind many projects in this country, but this is the first one with my name on it. If you thought I would reject the proposal, you are mistaken”.

Mia earlier said the road should be named Bingu wa Mutharika because “everyone in Malawi consented to it”.

In his address, Mutharika said roads are key to any development, including easy transportation of farm produce to various markets.

He said he is not ashamed that this particular road passes through his Ndata Farm. He said it is a mere coincidence that his imposing residence happens to have been built at an appropriate place.

Said Mutharika: “I will not be apologetic to have directly benefited from this road. I have a right to drive on a good road. I also want the nation to know that I did not vie for the presidency for monitory gains because I declared K150 million (about $898 230) when I took office”.

He said he bought the Ndata Farm for purposes of building a university and not commercial reasons. Mutharika said he gave out 650 hectares of land toward the projects to benefit the whole country.

Speaking earlier, his brother Peter Mutharika, who is also MP for Thyolo East where the official launch took place and DPP proclaimed 2014 torch bearer, said members of the opposition should brace for a tough campaign in 2014 because the ruling party is poised for another landslide victory.

He advised people against vandalism of bridges, road signs and transformers as this is a setback to development.