Muthy even changed his minister for mining a few months ago -...

Muthy even changed his minister for mining a few months ago - why? At what would appear a critical time to establish new mines and minerals legislation - Perhaps Masaka the previous guy was not towing Muthy's line.

Muthy's not the lone ranger - the previous Banda govt extorted billions of kwacha from foreign donors in what is now referred to as cashgate - she now lives in exile for fear of facing charges of corruption.
It's just so entrenched but through technology - media - church organisations - foreign donors - things are changing for these poor people.

Muthy did a deal to secure maize which was seen as a good thing. Poorly handled it then saw way to much surplus and the local farmers who get a pittance at the best of times were selling their crop below cost.
To overcome electricity short falls (or to seek popularity) they have procured very large generators which I don't believe at this point are even up and going - even so - who can afford the increase of 25% in charges except the politicians. Just terrible governance and waste of incredibly needed resources.

Anyway It's difficult for an outsider to see what occurs - imagine what the locals feel.

Regarding mining - it has a tarnished history. Locals are quick to blame the companies as they are not so educated in happenings. A lot of it is poor governance or corruption at govt levels. However in the case of Paladin they did screw the govt by using a loophole to avoid taxes in sending money (legitimately) through off shore banks.

Simple solution - table and implement the new mining bill which will see total accountability. It will benefit the whole nation in providing so many needed resources and infrastructure. It's not even mentioned in media or by the govt any more - like the 10 000 new university positions he promised during his election campaign and so on and so on - TERRIBLE DIRTY CORRUPT POLITICS.

Anyway I wont bring it up again - change is coming and change takes time.