PAC meets Apam, chiefs on safety of persons with albinism
The Public Affairs Committee (PAC) is today meeting the Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi (Apam) and the Chiefs Forum to discuss issues affecting persons with albinism.
The quasi-religious body further intends to engage Herbalists Association of Malawi later in the week on the same issue.
PAC executive director Robert Phiri said in an interview yesterday the body is also strategising on further activities to contribute to the National Action Plan to deal with issues of killings and abduction of persons with albinism.
He said PAC decided to narrow down the discussion with specific groups such as chiefs, herbalists and the religious community which they feel should be prioritised in dealing with myths and beliefs.
Said Phiri: “We thought we should discuss more and from there we can strategise more on how we can contribute to the National Action Plan aimed at minimising incidences of violence against persons with albinism.”
He further expressed the need to concretise some of the strategies contained in the National Action Plan, especially on awareness and civic education.
Efforts to speak to Apam proved futile as its president Overstone Kondowe said he was in a meeting in Blantyre while spokesperson Nellie Salima said she only speaks when delegated.
According to Phiri, the meetings will be held in closed doors but journalists will be free to interview the stakeholders later.
On the religious body’s plan to meet all eight presidential candidates this month to make them commit to conduct a peaceful campaign, Phiri said plans are at an advanced stage and bookings have already started with specific candidates.
He said President Peter Mutharika already confirmed to meet PAC during the meeting the body had with him last December.
According to Phiri, by signing a peace declaration, the presidential candidates will set the tone for a violence-free political campaign in the run-up to the May 21 Tripartite Elections.
