There is growing anger in Malawi over a post-Christmas fortnight trip to the UK that one of the country's vice-presidents is due to take.
Jane Ansah's visit will be in a private capacity but the reported size of both her entourage and overall cost of the trip has ignited fierce criticism. The details have been disputed by her office.
The row began after the circulation of an alleged leaked letter to the Malawi High Commission in London, signed by Secretary for Foreign Affairs Chauncy Simwaka, listing 15 individuals set to accompany Ansah.
In power since October, the vice-president's government has pledged to manage the economy competently and has already announced a raft of austerity measures.
Malawian media have published further alleged details about the visit, reportedly from leaked documents saying it would cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
