Malasa on 3-month forced leave over wrangles
The Anglican Church of the Province of Central Africa has sent Bishop Brighton Malasa of the Anglican Diocese of the Upper Shire (Adus) on a three-month leave to allow for investigations into the diocese’s wrangles.
Malasa’s leave, which started on March 9, follows petitions by church representatives from 37 parishes out of 41 in the diocese demanding their leader’s resignation on allegations of mismanagement of the diocese.
Among others, the petitioners want the diocese to be audited following allegations that Malasa misappropriated church funds.
A letter dated March 18 2020, signed by Archbishop and Primate of Central Africa Albert Chama, states that the purpose of the leave was to give Malasa “time to have a quiet and reflective time and to allow for the addressing of issues affecting the Diocese of Upper Shire without undue pressure on his personal life”.
The letter further states that in the absence of Malasa, the diocese Vicar General Cannon Edward Kawinga will take charge of all activities in Adus.
Chama has since expressed willingness to meet representatives of the petitioners to address the issues they raised.
When contacted yesterday, Malasa refused to comment on the matter.
Chairperson of the petitioners John Awadi welcomed Malasa’s leave which he described as “forced leave” and the diocese’s first step in the right direction. In a separate interview, vice-president of Adus youth department Emmanuel Douglas, echoed Awadi’s sentiments that petitioners still want Malasa’s resignation or removal, saying the issue of abuse of funds is one of the main grievances against him.
