A group of Muslims in Mangochi calling themselves ‘Mangochi Muslim Concerned Citizens’ yesterday took to the streets demonstrating against Malawi Government’s vote in support of Israel’s continued conflict with Palestine.
The demonstration started from Mangochi Roundabout to the District Commissioner’s office.
Speaking after delivering the petition, the group’s vice-secretary Assad Ahamad said they were surprised to hear that the Malawi Government endorsed the continuation of the war in Gaza, instead of condemning it.
He said: “We, the Muslim community in Malawi, are writing to express our deep concern and disappointment regarding Malawi’s decision to support the ongoing conflict in Gaza.”
Ahamad said the situation in Gaza has resulted in devasting consequences, including the loss of thousands of lives, mostly civilians, and widespread destruction of property.
“We cannot comprehend why our President [Government] would choose to endorse such violence and genocide over peaceful resolution,” he said.
Ahamad further said they are failing to understand the benefits Malawi is receiving for backing Israel in the conflict.
“It is crucial for us to understand the motivation behind this decision, especially considering that the country is being led by someone whose background is a pastor,” he said, further asking President Lazarus Chakwera to rescind his stance and help stop the war in Gaza
“We give him 14 days to rescind his stance. We can stay quiet when children are sleeping, but not when they are dying,” he said.
Speaking after receiving the petition, Mangochi acting district commissioner Bisai Mtayamanja thanked the Muslims for conducting peaceful demonstrations. He pledged to deliver the petition to the President as soon as possible.
Commenting on the protests, Muslim Association of Malawi (MAM) publicity secretary Sheikh Dinala Chabulika said they share the feelings of the demonstrators.
“The stance was bad and we, as MAM, already queried government on that and I am happy that as of yesterday we have heard it faulting the war,” he said.
Effforts to talk to government spokesperson Moses Kunkuyu, who is also Minister of Digitisation, proved futile as his phone went unanswered after several attempts.
Despite the demonstrations being peaceful, business came to a standstill in most parts of the district as shops were closed.
The demonstrations saw heavy presence of security from the Malawi Police Service
