Political parties, clergy dared on unity

Political parties and the clergy have been asked to unite and avoid internal bickering if the country is to make any meaningful progress in its pursuit for development.

Providence Industrial Mission (PIM) president the Reverend Wilson Mitambo made the appeal yesterday in his speech during the John Chilembwe Memorial Service at PIM in Chiradzulu District.

He said: “It is my appeal to all churches and political parties in our country to love one another and work together for God to extend our territory.

“It’s high time that we have been hearing of numerous wrangles from various churches and political parties. Now, how can we advance peace if we are fond of quarrelling? Is this what John Chilembwe wanted for the nation?”

Mitambo said it is imperative for Malawians to seek peace and unity stressing that it is a catalyst for the country’s development and in its quest to achieve aspirations outlined in Malawi 2063 (MW2063), the long-term development strategy.

He said as Malawians of goodwill, seeking God first is important, especially considering the dreams that Chilembwe had in his quest for freedom.

Mitambo described Chilembwe as a leader who grew up with courage and vast knowledge about God; hence, Malawians must emulate his example.

In his speech, President Lazarus Chakwera said the country needs people that are hard working and willing to make sacrifices not only for themselves, but for the greater good of the nation.

The President said such sacrifices will lead to prosperity and independence, which was Chilembwe’s vision, and is now enshrined in MW2063.

He said: “Today we remember John Chilembwe’s vision. One of his visions was education. He put his heart on education because he did not want to be an uneducated individual.

“So, when MW2063 encourages us to work hard and attain a good education, it is because the vision of Chilembwe is enshrined in the country’s long-term development agenda.”

The President said he will soon officially open 500 schools government has built with assistance from the American Government to improve the education sector.

He said by opening these schools, Chilembwe’s vision will be realised.

To honour Chilembwe, Chakwera has directed that the newly opened Phalombe District Hospital be named after Chilembwe to maintain his legacy.

He further said Chilembwe’s quest for freedom aligns with the self-reliance concept in MW2063.

The President said people must not always blame him for the numerous misfortunes, but rather, work on ensuring they become productive citizens.

Chakwera, who was welcomed at the event by Vice-President Saulos Chilima, also acknowledged reports of hunger and challenges in the implementation of both the Affordable Inputs Programme and maize sales.

He said this is the reason he is in the Southern Region to ensure some of the issues are sorted out.

The event started with laying of wreaths, which was led by Chakwera and Chilima with prayers following thereafter.

January 15 was declared John Chilembwe Day and is a public holiday in Malawi to celebrate the life and achievements of nationalist John Chilembwe.