Malawi has made notable progress in human rights, political freedoms and access to education since attaining independence, but corruption continues to deny citizens the full benefits of that progress, the Lost History Foundation has said.

Speaking on Zodiak Broadcasting Station's Tiuzeni Zoona programme, the Foundation's Executive Director and Founder, Cornelia Selenje, described Malawi's 62-year journey as one of "mixed fortunes," saying the country has registered democratic gains that deserve recognition.

"We must acknowledge that Malawi has done well in promoting human rights, political freedoms and expanding access to education. Those are significant achievements compared to where we came from in 1964," Selenje said.

He, however, argued that the gains have been blunted by corruption and weak governance.

"Corruption has choked the gains of independence. We have political freedom, but many Malawians are yet to enjoy economic freedom because resources meant for development are continually being lost. Independence should translate into improved livelihoods, not just democratic rights," he said.

Selenje's remarks come days after the government replaced this year's state-funded Independence Day celebrations with a National Thanksgiving and Supplication Programme held on Monday, citing fiscal discipline, austerity measures and the need to channel scarce public resources towards economic recovery, food security and improved service delivery.

Leader of Opposition Simplex Chithyola Banda criticised the decision, arguing that while economic challenges are real, Independence Day remains a defining national occasion that should not lose its significance.

"Our independence is part of who we are as a people. Even in difficult times, we should find meaningful ways of commemorating this important milestone because it reminds us of where we have come from and where we aspire to go," Banda said.

Selenje said the absence of traditional celebrations should not overshadow the need for national reflection.

"Malawi at 62 should not only be about celebration. It should be a moment for honest introspection, celebrating our successes while confronting the corruption and governance failures that continue to hold the country back," he said.