Political parties call on HRDC ‘to save Malawi’
Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and Alliance for Democracy (Aford) have urged Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) not to be intimidated in their fight for change.
The political parties said this on Friday when HRDC organised a memorial service for late Aford leader Chakufwa Chihana in recognition of the role he played in fighting for democracy.
MCP legislator Kezzie Msukwa, who represented the party at the function, likened HRDC to Chihana, saying they have the same fighting spirit.
He said Chihana did not give up fighting for democracy and HRDC should emulate his example in fighting for good governance despite resistance from authorities.
“MCP was brought down by Chihana and the good part was that Kamuzu had a listening [ear]. But that is not what we are seeing now. So, don’t give up, one day you will conquer.
“The old MCP is gone and now there is a new MCP that is there to promote democracy,” said Msukwa.
He also commended HRDC for honouring Chihana, saying the fallen Aford leader deserves respect for the role he played.
Aford member Frank Mwenifumbo commended HRDC leaders for being bold and fighting for human rights despite several threats, assassination plots and other plans aimed at bringing the group’s leaders down.
On his part, Aford spokesperson Khumbo Mwaungulu called on HRDC to help push for the construction of Chihana’s mausoleum, saying it is high time his grave had a structure befitting a hero.
He lamented that there are people who died later than Chihana and have been given befitting burial places despite Chihana playing a greater role than them.
HRDC chairperson Timothy Mtambo said his grouping is ready to fight for change and will not be intimidated by threats. He said Malawi needs to be saved so that it is home to everyone.
“We will fight to the end. We are going to fight for this country and we are going to conquer. We will make Malawi a hard place for you to live if you think we will give up,” said Mtambo.
He also bemoaned the state of late Chihana’s grave saying it is not befitting a hero.
“We are embarrassed to be at such a poor grave site. We expected to find a burial site befitting the role he played to liberate Malawi,” said Mtambo.
