Political leaders don’t understand power—Evangelist
Evengelist Linley Mbeta says unless political leaders understand the concept of power, violence and avoidable misunderstandings will continue to blight politics in Malawi.
Mbeta said because leaders have a poor understanding of power and leadership, they champion violence as a means for gaining and consolidating political advantage over rivals.
“The main cause of politically-motivated violence is lack of understanding among our leaders that leadership is derived from God. Most of our political leaders do not understand the concept of power; hence, they cannot appreciate the importance of an issue-based campaign.
“I believe that this country can achieve a violence-free electoral process if our leaders understand the concept of leadership. If we instill these values in ourselves, Malawi will be able to conduct electoral processes that are free from violence, tensions and hatred,” she said.
Mbeta was involved in efforts that defused tension in Mbayani Township in Blantyre after supporters of rival politicians Rashid Gaffar and Felix Njawala clashed over who should renovate the police unit in the area.
She and other faith leaders in the township operated under Chigonjetso Community Development Organisation to engage the two politicians and their supporters on the conflict.
The evangelist said love, unity and tolerance are crucial for violence-free elections in 2014.
“Our area of intervention mainly focuses on building the spirit of love and unity for mankind. We are also sensitising people on the need to tolerate one another and let God fight for us where we are limited,” said Mbeta.—Read the full interview with evangelist Mbeta on the Religion Forum page
