Last Friday, May 1, Malawi joined the global community in commemorating Labour Day, a day dedicated to recognising the invaluable contributions of workers who serve as the backbone of our economy. More than just a public holiday, Labour Day is a moment to reflect on the dignity of work, the sanctity of workers’ rights, and the solemn responsibility of leaders to uphold fair labour practices.
Regrettably, this year’s commemorations were overshadowed by a disturbing video circulating on social media, showing the Mayor of Blantyre, His Worship Jomo Osman, physically assaulting a woman. Such conduct is deeply concerning, especially coming from a “chief servant” expected to champion the welfare of the city’s inhabitants. Violence is never a solution; it is an outdated and unacceptable recourse. Women’s rights are human rights, and they must be protected without compromise. I stand firmly by the principle that real men do not abuse or raise their hands against women.
For the mayor, this incident highlights a desperate need for professional orientation. Structured, in-house capacity building would help him better understand the ethical boundaries and responsibilities of his office. Leadership requires a clarity of roles; even a Mayor cannot be everywhere or do everything personally.
While the Mayor’s subsequent apology is a welcome sign of accountability, lessons must be learnt. As a public figure, every action is subject to intense scrutiny. Moving forward, he must act with the integrity necessary to protect both the dignity of his office and his own legacy.
Returning to the Labour Day issue, one cannot help but reflect on how the significance of this day has evolved. Having observed the labour movement for years, it is clear that Labour Day was once a formidable platform that shaped Malawi’s political and social landscape. It commanded national attention; the government and politicians alike watched closely, knowing that the collective voice of the workforce carried genuine weight.
Those were the days of vibrant, high-stakes trade unionism. Leaders such as Sunduzwayo Madise, the late Francis Antonio, the late Austin Kalimanjira, Ken Williams Mhango, Prince Mdolo, and Eunice Makangala, supported by then-emerging figures like Robert Mkwezalamba and Luther Mambala, ensured that unions were active, visible, and effective. They stood firmly for workers’ rights and kept labour issues at the centre of the national discourse.
Today, however, we see a marked decline in the visibility and influence of labour unions. Despite this, the struggle continues: many workers still face exploitation, low wages, job insecurity, and a lack of meaningful representation. This has fostered a growing perception that unions have lost their way. Whether due to fear, limited capacity, or “capture” similar to other civil society groups, the result is the same—workers remain vulnerable.
Labour unions must rise to reclaim their role as the primary defenders of the workforce. Labour Day must move beyond routine observance to become a moment of honest reflection and decisive action. Malawi needs leadership committed to addressing the plight of its workers and fiercely protecting their fundamental rights.
