News
Malawi: President Bingu wa Mutharika hospitalized with heart problem
In more recent years, the economy has stumbled, with shortages of fuel and foreign currency and high unemployment.
Anti-government demonstrations across Malawi last year were met with an unprecedented security crackdown that resulted in at least 19 deaths.
Malawi’s relations with foreign donors have been strained by accusations Mutharika is authoritarian and responsible for human rights abuses. Last month, a U.S. aid agency that rewards good governance suspended US$350 million worth of assistance to Malawi.
Mutharika also has clashed with politicians at home, including his own vice president, Joyce Banda. She was expelled from Mutharika’s party and formed her own but remains vice president. Under the constitution, she would become president if there were a sudden vacancy at the top.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.
