Malawi Vice-President Jane Ansah in rift with President Peter Mutharika

A political dispute between Malawi President Peter Mutharika and First Vice‑President Jane Ansah has deepened. The conflict began after leaked documents revealed a state‑funded private trip to the United Kingdom in December 2025 that was reported to cost K1.9 billion. The trip, intended to accompany Ansah’s husband, sparked public outrage and accusations of misuse of funds. Subsequent cabinet meetings in Lilongwe on 27 July were attended by Ansah despite her office initially claiming she was unaware of the gathering, further highlighting the mistrust between the two leaders.

The Vice‑President’s office issued a statement denying any plot to undermine the presidency, asserting that Ansah “stands with the Constitution” and rejects speculation that she might assume the presidency. The clarification came after activist Sylvester Namiwa suggested Ansah could take over within two months, citing her exclusion from cabinet meetings. The office urged the public to disregard rumors and reaffirmed its commitment to constitutional order as the country approaches its next electoral cycle.