Subject: shame of Patricia Shanil Muluzi U$150,000 shopping spree

Author: Mwasinga Ben.

I have been a member of the UDF for some years now,but in recent days have become disenfranchised with the behaviour of our first lady Patricia Shanil.

As a woman and a doctor I have always identified with our first lady as a symbol of how a public figure should conduct themselves in Malawi. She has used her position to help those less fortunate than herself, especially aiding children. In recent days I have been shocked and disgusted to find that she has just taken U$150,000 (15 million kwacha) of Government money to take her children on a lavish shopping spree in London.

It has also emerged that in 1999 she took a similar trip to shop for her extravagant wedding, again at the expense of the public purse. In 2000 did she not also go to Florida and London, at the expense of the public purse? In 2001 did she not go to France and Italy again at lavish expense to the public purse?

Who is going to account for all this money spent on seemingly needless and lavish extravgance. And this at a time when the people of Malawi are starving? All that money....how many schools could have been built? How many lives could have been saved by medicine bought with that money? How many children have to die before something is done?

I have, in the past, dismissed Patricia Shanil's critics who have labelled her money grabbing and out for personal glory. I am now shamed that I defended her actions for so long. Who is Patricia Shanil? Benevolent public figure out to help those less fortunate than herself or a money hungry public sham out to help only herself?

Contrast the benevolent biography on the Freedom Foundation Trust website with her recent and persistent extravagance. ACB where are you?

Author: Ben Mwasinga AKA George T. Banda.