JB challenges MHRC commissioners
President Joyce Banda has challenged the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) to perform its advisory role to the Executive arm of government without fear or favour.
The President was speaking in Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe, on Wednesday during the swearing-in ceremony of seven MHRC commissioners.
Said Banda: “I am also particularly interested in the advisory role of the [Malawi] Human Rights Commission to the Executive arm of government as stipulated in the Malawi Human Rights Commission Act.
“Let me persuade you to ensure that you effectively utilise this provision. Let me assure you all that nobody will be arrested by my office and I shall not hesitate to seek advice from your institution,†said Banda.
She assured the commissioners of her government’s support in respecting human rights and observing good governance.
“My government expects MHRC to effectively position itself as a credible and independent human rights institution and provide the much-needed visible leadership to other players in the human rights sector, including non-governmental organisations,†she said.
Speaking at the same function, law commissioner Gertrude Hiwa thanked Banda for showing interest in human rights issues.
The sworn-in commissioners were Marshal Chilenga, Sophie Asimenye Kalinde, the Reverend Dr. Zacchaeus Joe Brian Kawalala, Benedicto Shadreck Kondowe, Dalitso Kingsley Gabriel Kubalasa, Rogers Collins Newa and Stephen Edwin Nkoka.
According to Hiwa, this is a fifth cohort of commissioners to be appointed and sworn in since its inception. —Mana
