One of the country’s social commentators, Emily Mkamanga, has challenged Malawians holding authoritative positions to swallow their pride and learn to live a life which reflects the economic stand of the country.

The remarks by Mkamanga comes following international media reports that the global leader in the Roman Catholic church, Pope Francis, who is visiting Mozambique on September 4, has decided to spend less by taking with him a limited entourage and stay in less expensive hotel in Maputo.

Mkamanga said the High Pontiff’s stand to reject luxurious accommodation has challenged Malawian leaders against living extravagant lifestyle within and outside the country to minimize the country’s expenditure.

Mkamanga said: “Pope Francis is a highly ranked person in the world and his refusal to stay in highly expensive hotel means he just want to send a picture to leaders against a lavish lifestyle.”

The commentator, has further advised the country’s leaders to borrow a leaf from the Pontiff if the nation is to register economic growth in different sectors.

Most leaders in the country, especially politicians, have been on record of squandering taxpayer’s money on foreign trips.

According to media reports, the High Pontiff is expected to visit Mozambique on an entourage of 50 and will stay at less expensive Hotels in Maputo.

In a statement, Holy See Press Office interim director, Alessandro Gisotti, revealed that the journey is scheduled to take place from 4 to 10 September and the Pontiff will visit the cities of Maputo in Mozambique, Antananarivo in Madagascar and Port Louis in Mauritius.