Civil society rally against refugees rights group ban
A coalition of 12 civil society organisations (CSOs) has ganged up against government’s ban of Inua Advocacy, a refugee welfare advocating group at Dzaleka Refugees Camp in Dowa District.
Ministry of Homeland Security refugees department imposed the ban in a letter dated June 10 2024, saying the decision means Inua cannot involve government partners in its dealings.
The letter says the ban follows “the non-compliance to the communication referred to above from government on the revocation of partnership.” There has been no further clarification.
In a letter dated July 2 2024, the CSOs argue that the ban has potential to undermine their support towards government efforts.
“We are concerned that your department’s decision has a chilling effect on the existence and operations of Inua,” reads the letter in part, signed by the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace, Church and Society of the Livingstonia Synod, Youth and Society (YAS), Southern Africa Litigation Centre and Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation.
Others are Inua, Human Rights Defenders Coalition, Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiative, National Advocacy Platform and Ukhondo Services Foundation
The letter asks for a meeting with the department said: “The primary is to gain a better understanding of your office’s decision to bar Inua.
“As CSOs representatives, we are eager to engage with your office to address this issue and collaborate on finding durable solutions.”
In response to our questionnaire, YAS executive director Charles Kajoloweka said the meeting was initially slated for July 11, but has been rescheduled.
Meanwhile, Inua communications officer Brenda Buliyani has welcomed the CSOs intervention for a peaceful resolution.
“The coalition is committed to preventing any stifling of organisational workspaces.
“Their meeting with the commissioner aimed to address the issue and find a lasting solution to ensure we operate freely in our mission to promote refugee rights,” she said.
Refugees General commissioner Ignatius Maulana (retired) acknowledged receiving the letter.
He said: “Indeed, a request was received from YAS for a meeting to discuss the matter regarding the termination of partnership with Inua.
“This was to ensure contact and dialogue as there is no matter requiring resolution.
Maulana, however, said the meeting failed because of YAS’s absence.
In an earlier interview with our sister paper The Nation, he justified the ban, saying Inua’s “strategic direction was found not to be in line with government.”
Inua collects complaints from refugees about services they receive, produce and disseminate reports.
It also provides emergency relief such as food, access to medical care and support towards dignified shelter of refugees and asylum-seekers in need.
