'Media Practitioners, Media Houses in Malawi Should Stick to Codes of Conduct'

As Malawians eagerly await the announcement of Tripartite Elections results by the Malawi Electoral Commission (Mec), attention has suddenly turned on media practitioners, who are expected to lead the nation towards the path of sobriety during this tense political period. Our reporter RICHARD CHIROMBO caught up with Media Council of Malawi Board Chairperson, Prof. Wiseman Chijere Chirwa, on media performance and other issues. Excerpts:

Media practitioners pride themselves in being independent and objective. However, of late, we have seen media managers and associations calling on journalists to side with Mec in its endeavour to administer free, fair and credible elections. Doesn’t this entail throwing media independence to the wind?

Our starting point should be: What does the law say? The law provides that the body mandated to manage elections in Malawi is the Mec. There is no other body. So, if media houses and individuals support it, bias can’t come in because media houses are simply being consistent with the legal provisions. The law provides that Mec should work freely, without undue interference from anyone, including the media. We are, therefore, calling for political parties to back off, and give Mec space to work within the confines of the law. In a nutshell, siding with Mec cannot be construed as bias; it simply means we are being consistent with the law. We want Constitutional bodies such as Mec to be seen to be working as provided for in the laws.

           

          The political weather is hot, the citizens are anxious and, inevitably, the media cannot
          escape the heat. What should be the role of media houses and practitioners in
          upholding democratic principles?

In terms of the actual work of media practitioners and houses, they should stick to codes of conduct that guide them. For instance, we have the Malawi Media Code of Conduct on elections as well as the Media Council of Malawi’s Code of Conduct that regulate the work of journalists. All these codes of conduct rally against partisan reporting, sensational reporting, mixing opinion with facts, and cheque book journalism being used as tools of propagating the lines of others. If we do this, there will be objectivity, credibility. It’s actually dangerous for media practitioners and houses to actually get out of what is provided for in the Code of Conduct and behave as youth wings of political parties.

Some things are better said than done. How can these ideals be realised, practically?

Journalists can cover the elections, or any activity associated with the elections, so long as they ensure that they back themselves with facts, figures. They should always separate personal opinion from facts. They can comment, but they should base their comments on evidence. They should draw a line between an assessment based on personal view and that based on people’s views.

Then, there is the issue of extending the electoral calendar. One school of thought has it that Mec can seek an extension from the courts, while another school of thought is propagating that only the Parliament can do that. The media is caught in the maze of these arguments and counterarguments. Which side should they (media) lean on?

(They should lean on the side of) the law. The law provides for the Elections’ Calendar. The Parliamentary and Presidential Elections Act, the Local Government Elections Act- which, I understand, was amended- provide for an elections’ calendar.  The law mandates Mec to announce the results within eight days, plus an allowance of 72 hours. So, as long as Mec is working within its calendar, there is no wrong committed. If there is need for an extension (to the calendar), it should not be done in conflict with the electoral calendar, which is in line with the law. In which case, Mec needs to move a motion, appear before the courts. But, again, the calendar cannot be extended beyond what is provided for in the law. However, if Mec officials want to amend a specific provision; that is the role of Parliament. Otherwise, Mec can extend voting to within seven days of the electoral calendar. For example, if the elections were scheduled for May 20, they can extend them to 23rd May or 24th May, so long as it is within seven days of the electoral calendar. We have had such cases before. In 1999, for example, the date had to be changed. In which case, Mec has to provide material evidence that there is a risk to the elections but, still, this must be within the timeframe.

            What about the issue of vote recount?
    

Our starting point should be: Who is mandated to manage the electoral process? It is Mec. And, so, it should be Mec seeing the need for recounting. A motion should emanate from Mec, providing reasons and evidence. The evidence must be adequate, credible. The recount can be in various degrees: Recount in the sense that, as you are counting, you make a mistake and you want to cross-check; a recount where you sealed ballot boxes, and you want to open them again; partial recount, to verify results that affect part of the electorate; or a total recount, in case the entire electoral process is affected. In all cases, the body mandated is Mec, and what matters is the gravity of evidence. Even with a recount, there is a possibility that the elections will be compromised. In short, recounting establishes credibility of election results; it’s not just about who has won or lost.

What lessons can media practitioners and the nation draw from Malawi’s first Tripartite Elections?
The first lesson is that the First-Past-The-Post system, much as it is simple, is very problematic in closely-contested elections. I think the 50+1 provision would have solved all these problems because the winner and the runner up would have been announced by now. The second lesson is that, when the Constitution was being framed, we never anticipated that we would have problems of this nature. Who would have imagined that electoral results would be challenged before they are even announced?  Again, there is no provision on nullification of elections in case of massive irregularities. Surely, it can’t be the incumbent president resolving these issues. And, certainly, it can’t be the courts settling each and every issue.

'PP did not lose the presidential election’

The People’s Party (PP) has become the first ruling party to lose in a presidential election after the re-introduction of multiparty politics in 1994. Our reporter RICHARD CHIROMBO caught up PP spokesperson Ken Msonda to find out how the party is faring outside the realm of power and the way forward. Excerpts:

Have you come to terms with the fact that you are now an opposition party?
Had it been that we did not win the presidential election in the May 20 tripartite elections, I would have honestly told you how we are faring as an opposition party. But we did not lose the presidential election, and we are here (in the opposition) because the process was flawed and marred by massive irregularities. I repeat, the PP did not lose the (presidential) election. So, we cannot talk of coming to terms with the idea of becoming an apposition party; but I can say without fear of contraction that we have accepted the turn of events, but we are still seething over the irregular manner in which the announcement of results was made. We are not satisfied with the outcomes of the Presidential, Parliamentary and Local Government Elections.

Why? The former president Joyce Banda wished the new President well.
Of course, of course. But you should realise that (Former) president Joyce Banda is a democrat, a God-fearing president, and an individual who puts the welfare of Malawians at heart. She accepted the results and wished the new President well because she cares for Malawians and did not want bloodshed in the country. She wants the best for the country. That is why she said what she said, and we know that she meant what she said. That is why we will always be proud that the PP gave this country a president who was caring and put the country’s interests before her own; a president who shared the little she had with the less privileged in Malawi, not because she was in power, but because giving is her way of life. What I am saying is that the (former) president knows that the electoral process was marred by irregularities and that the outcome is not a true reflection of the will of Malawians, but she put national interests first. That’s all. But, as a party, our position is that the election results were scandalous. In the end, Malawians will be the best judges.

Talking of putting national interests first. Why didn’t the former president put the interests of Malawians first by attending President Peter Mutharika’s inauguration, then?
The (former) president already showed political maturity by wishing the new President well and, for that, we need to commend her. Congratulating the new President was an indication that she is a democratic we have always known her to be. Remember, also, that she repealed anti-media laws and created a conducive environment for journalists. Otherwise, at the rate the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) regime was going before she took over the reigns, I don’t think journalists would have been free in this country. You, people, should have been living as refugees in Tanzania and neighbouring countries. You would have been beaten to pulp in your own country. We should not forget those things. So, the issue of her not attending the inauguration ceremony is like peanuts to me, when we look at the bigger picture. She saved this country from bloodshed by wishing the new President well. Let’s look at the big picture. Inauguration is like peanuts when compared to the way (former) president Dr. Banda handled herself during this crucial period. The same goes with the PP: We accepted the results because we did not want bloodshed in this country.   I tell you, people die in the aftermath of elections in other countries. Our responsibility was to make sure we prevented that scenario, and we succeeded.

Your party has 26 Members of Parliament. For a political organisation formed less than five years ago, is this not an achievement?
It is not an achievement. We are disappointed with the way we have fared. But, anyway, the process was marred by so many irregularities and the electoral results are illegitimate because some people have cooked up the figures, and imposed them on us. For the sake of national peace and development, we have said, ‘Okay, this has happened. Let’s plan for the future’. And, so, we will focus on the future. We will sit down as a party to map the way forward. We will look at how we can help bring credibility to the electoral process. We will do this while maintaining that we are not satisfied with the results of the Presidential, Parliamentary and Local Government Elections and while, at the same time, saying we will not seek legal redress.

Why, then, don’t you just withdraw your representatives from Parliamentary and Local Government proceedings? Is it not ironic that your party members will go to Parliament on the ticket ‘illegitimate’ results?
As a party, we cannot do that. We will not even go to court to contest the results of the Presidential, Parliamentary and Presidential Elections because we want to focus on national development and the future. We have accepted the way things are, while convinced that the elections were not free, fair and credible. At the same time, we are happy that over a million people voted for us; meaning, they see value in our brand.  We know that many more people voted for us, but these were the figures that were imposed on us. You may wish to remember that, when she wished the new President well, our leader Dr. Joyce Banda did not mention the fact that the PP will be contesting the results in court. We will leave things as they are.

Should Malawians expect the PP to work with the DPP in Parliament or on national affairs?
We will put Malawians first. Our president already demonstrated that when she was the Head of Government and State. But this is one of the things we will discuss after mapping the way forward, and the Secretary General will be in a better position to say whether we will work with the DPP. It is too early to say that at the moment. 

‘Northerners Have Always Set National Agenda’

Of late, the debate on federalism has gained currency, albeit with some citizens linking it to regionalism. RICHARD CHIROMBO engages trade unionist and human rights activist Kenwilliams Mhango, who has been championing the cause of federalism in the Southern Region and engages him on this and other issues. Excerpts: 

People know you as a human rights activist and trade unionist whose work is premised on unifying Malawians. Now that you have joined activism for federalism, are you not becoming a divisive figure?

Not at all. In fact, it is the current (political) set up that is divisive. There are some regions in the country that have been marginalized for a long time. The mistake people are mistake is that of linking the federalism, and not secession, to one region. But you may wish to know that in the Southern Region, we have a district such as Chiradzulu where basic necessities are hard to come by, yet the district has influential people like Hon. Henry Mussa and others. Go to Chiradzulu and you will literary count the number of filling stations with the fingers of one hand. That is why I have joined the campaign for federalism. Like former South African president, Nelson Mandela, said, “If I am fighting for a just cause, I will fight for it with whatever I have, even if it is going to take my life.’ Federal system is a unity of purpose and harmony in development agenda.

Why put your life on the line by saying that “even if it is going to take my life”? Will the federalism campaign be this combative?

Let me answer your question by quoting Mandela again. “It is not enough to be frustrated, you have to fight.”

What do you mean by that?

Planet Earth, as a place for us all to come together and share our memories as we think of transforming the lives of the most marginalized not only in Malawi but in the Southern African Development Community region as a whole. This can only be achieved through a gallant campaign for social protection which will culminate in hopes for a better livelihood for everyone. The benefits of national development will not come on a silver platter. We have to fight for it. And that is what some of us are doing. 

How do you plan that? Beat people up? Shout loudly in the streets?

We don’t need to do anything at all. The only thing we have to do is to put the peole first. Get me clearly, by people I don’t mean chiefs. Leave chiefs alone because history has taught us that Chiefs move with the discussion of the majority. You may recall that when the Country was colonized they did not resist. When the Country was under Federation they did not resist. When they Country was Independent they did not resist. When the country was fighting for change to Multi Party Democracy they did not resist. When there was third Term   call by Dr Bakili Muluzi they did not resist. When the late President  Dr Bingu wa Muthalika moved out of the United Democratic Front (DPP) to form his own  party, now the Democratic Progressive Party, they did not resist. When he   introduced the then Zero Deficit Budget, they did not resist. When President Joyce Banda, then, moved out from DPP to form her own party, People’s Party, they did not resist, hence my ideas that Chiefs should be left alone on the Federal System debate because, finally, they will not resist. The Government of Malawi should not waste time and resources on chiefs, instead of channeling them to other development initiatives.

On how many fronts are you fighting the ‘battle’, now that you seem to be against chiefs’ participation in the issue?

We are not against chiefs. We just feel, very strongly, that the chiefs are being misled. Politicians are taking advantage of their lack of knowledge on the issue of federalism. People should not critic federal system without knowing how the Federal system works. Countries that have employed the system are, surprisingly, highly developed  because of the Popular Participation in Developments as propelled in the Arusha African Charter for Popular  Participation in Development and Transformation which was held on 12-16 February 1990 and opened by H.E Hassan Mwinyi  the then President of the United Republic  of Tanzania. Signatories’ gave their support to the popular participation in Development and Transformation which was premised on the point that, for a country to develop, the element of peoples’ participation must be there. This has not been happening in Malawi since independence.

It’s the engine for launching the process for economic Transformation of the structures and material attributes of a society.

Don’t you think that one obstacle facing the federalism campaign is that some people are linking it to one region?

That is not a problem at all. You may wish to remember that it is people from the Northern Region who have always had national interest at heart. You may wish to remember that a son from the Northern Region, Orton Chirwa, was among the first people to denounce the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland. Other people followed suit. The question is: Who benefitted when the Federation was crushed down? It was people from other parts of the country. For multiparty politics of government to take root in the country, it was Chakufwa Chihana who beat the first drum. But it was former president Bakili Muluzi who benefitted by being elected Head of State and Government. So, in the final analysis, it is people from the Northern Region who have the national agenda at heart. The good thing is that they are selfless and let other people reap the fruits.

All what people are looking for is popular participation in development and transformation for them to own the development as it comes from them, and not being imposed on them. Thus, the state is a representation that occupies central of political system which must be inclusive and not exclusive.

For the accountability, Transparency and Good Governance we need to Practice what was declared in the African Charter for popular participation in development and Transformation hence the Federal System.

In a nutshell, what are the benefits of federalism?

It will help us fodge a new partnership and compact must be forged among all the actors in the process of social, political and economic change. Without this collective commitment of federal system, popular participation is neither possible nor capable of producing developmental results. Therefore,  through  federal system, we  would  promote full effective participation by the masses together with governments in the recovery of the lost FIFTY years of   development process in Malawi. Political accountability of leadership at all levels measured by the use of checks and balances system. This will have the effect of social involvement capable of inducing social and life transformation change. Rural and urban people s organization such as workers, peasant, women youth students etc will be encouraged to initiate strategies to strengthen their productive power and meet their basic needs. Federal system will promote greater participation and consensus building in the formulation and implementation of economic and social policies at all level, including the identification and elimination of laws and bureaucratic procedures that pose obstacles to people’s participation in developments. The federal system will also eliminate tribalism, and save resources spent on un necessary summary dismissals as a result of political hate red will be redirected to productive activities and social services to the people.

Mr. 265 Relishes Big Brother Africa Hotshots Experience

‘Malawians have to support each other’
Mr. 265 was not ready to say a farewell. Malawians were not ready to hear a farewell. But, as if history has a script pre-written on Malawi’s Big Brother Africa (BBA) house representative’s fate, presenter I.K. made the dreaded announcement, once again ending the journey of one of the country reprentatives, Mr. 265, in BBA Hotshots, pinning hopes on the remaining female housemate Sipe. Our reporter RICHARD CHIROMBO had a chat with him on what he makes of Malawi’s chances of hitting the jackpot and other issues. Excerpts:
Welcome back home, Mr. 265. Gauging by the reception accorded to you when you jetted in from South Africa, do you feel welcomed back home?
I feel that People have welcomed me. The media, too, have been good. Of course, just like a football team, it would be naïve to expect and believe that everyone likes soccer. It is a similar case with me. I understand that not everyone in the country would be a fan of Big Brother Africa. Again, it must be borne in mind that BBA housemates go into the house as individuals. It just happens that, despite going there as individuals, they fly the flag of their country. Of course, I know that people wanted me to win the US$300, 000, but I am satisfied that I have achieved some of the goals I set when going into the BBA House.

You mean, there are other ‘big prizes’ for BBA housemates apart from the US$300, 000? I am made to believe that there is only one jackpot.
Listen. I know Malawians wanted me to come back home with the big prize (US$300, 000). So did I. But I had other ideas also in mind, one of which being to sell Malawi to the rest of Africa. You may wish to remember that I had a brand, Mr. 265, when going out to the House.  I deliberately settled for the brand name ‘Mr. 265’ because it is not just a meaningless brand-name. 265 is Malawi’s Country Code and I knew nobody (from another country) would adopt it and start using it because, as a Country Code, it is unique to Malawi. That was my first way of promoting Malawi. Secondly, I set out to promote Malawi by the use of language and, so, introduced some of the terminologies that are common in our language. For example, I introduced the terms ‘Osasiya’ (Continue) and ‘Palibe Kugona’ (busy night) and these terms are trending on Twitter. You see, there are some housemates who feel that for them to prop up their chances of winning big, they have to sing Nigerian music, instead of music from their Motherland. Some housemates are also fake, and not original, because they want to win Nigerian votes. That is wrong and painful. I was real and sold my country to the rest of Africa. This means I managed to achieve some of the things I set out to achieve.

You spent 35 days ‘holed’ up in a hotel before making it into the House. What thoughts crossed your mind during this ‘trying’ period?
It felt bad. At first, I thought I would spend four days and, then, get into the House. You see, when you are getting into the BBA House, initially you are mentally strong because you look forward to it. Our case was different and I kept on thinking: Who am I, as a person? I also had moral questions such as: How was I raised up? What do I want to do in the House? You start thinking a lot when put in a situation like that. When we finally got into the House, almost each and every housemate was emotional. It was an emotional moment and not one of overexcitement as would have been the case had we not been in the hotel for 35 days. The fact that the number of days to the finale had been trimmed to 63 also added to this sense of emotional outburst, I guess. In a way, it was as if the hour we had been waiting for had finally come. And, then, there was the process of coming to terms with the fact that one had to learn to live with the 26 people, including myself, who had become housemates who would now have to learn to relate to the 50-million-plus viewership in Africa. The housemates themselves were asking a lot of questions when we finally made it into the House, which came as no surprise since we had different personalities in the House: Radio personalities, singers, actors, saxophone experts, among others. It was as if it was a Talent Show and not BBA anymore. Inevitably, there was a lot of noise in the House. Coincidentally, I was the only television presenter in this set up.

Others have observed that you were quiet in the House. Does it mean Malawi’s 265 Country Code is not very ‘busy’ with traffic and is, therefore, ‘quiet’?
I was not very quiet. I was simply learning how to mingle with different people. As compared to Mark 11 of Zambia, I was actually talking more (than him). I also decided that since people like Tayo (of Nigeria) are very loud, I did not want to be as loud (as him) because viewers would translate that as taking after him. I did not want to be his (Tayo’s) Cheer Leader. In short, I would say I was not ‘Quiet’ in the House; I was ‘Myself’.

What lessons have you cultivated from your stint in the House; lessons you will cherish the rest of your life?
The six weeks I spent in the House were like a six-week workshop. The first lesson is that I went there as a television presenter, and came out an actor. I had the chance to meet a number of people while in the House. Nigerian actor, Desmond Elliot, encouraged me to venture into acting and offered me insightful tips. This is because I did a lot of directing in a number of plays, and contributed much content in the story-line. The first play I directed was Waka Mu. I also directed Bindia, a Bollywood movie. R.J. Benjamin, the trainer on (South Africa’s) Idols shared a number of skills with me, too, as well as a number of experts who visited us in the House. Apart from playing these roles, being in the House has also taught me to discover how strong I am as a person. I have learned also to trust myself.

Will Malawi ever win the jackpot in BBA?
It depends on a number of factors. But, first, Malawians have to show that they love their representatives in the House by sending messages, voting for them, following them on Twitter. Just look at how many followers Zambia’s Mark 11 has on Twitter, as compared to Malawian housemates, and you will realise how serious our friends take BBA. I have now come to realise that the Malawi National Anthem does not contain the terms “Hunger, disease, envy” for nothing. We don’t support each other. Just imagine, there were more votes for me from Zimbabwe than from Malawi. Malawians are not very patriotic. Secondly, being evicted from the House hinges on who you are up against. West Africans support their representatives and there is need for SADC (Southern African Development Community) bloc to support its representatives. Let’s hope Sipe does it, but she needs to be strong. I am not disappointed to be out of the House, though. Being there has opened a number of opportunities for me. There is some networking going on. I will shortly be casting for different auditions.

Does this mean you have pulled the curtain on your career as television presenter?
No! Actually, I just met the Times Group Managing Director, who has told me that I still have my job at Times Television. But, first, I will have to do two or three things (in other countries) because of the programmes we have lined up. Very shortly, some of my ex-housemates, including Samantha (South Africa) and Tayo (Nigeria) will visit Malawi.    

Not yet the Malawi We Need: Examining the Malawi of Today

A media and advocacy statement from the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace

6th December 2014

1. Preamble

The Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi comprising of CCJP National, CCJP Chikwawa, Arch diocese of Blantyre, Zomba, Mangochi, Dedza, Archdiocese of Lilongwe, Mzuzu and Karonga gathered on 2nd, December 2014, at Msamba Pastoral Centre in Lilongwe; reflecting upon the Malawi of today. During this reflection process on the operations of CCJP and the socio-economic and living context of Malawi, CCJP noted that the lives of most Malawians today and specifically 6 months after the tripartite elections is a mixed bag of joys and sorrows. There are elements that are showing some glimmers of hope for an improved society yet at the same time there are also issues worrying many people that CCJP seeks to communicate to various stakeholders so that correct and proactive interventions are taken into practice to ameliorate the suffering and the agonies of the people. In doing this, CCJP recognises the already existing initiatives from government, NGOs, FBOs and development partners. However, CCJP observes that there is more that needs to be done and to be done radically differently and effectively to make Malawi a better place for all. We believe after celebrating 50 years of independence, we Malawians need to do things with a radical change of perception, conviction and direction.

2. The positives currently observed in our society today

1. Peaceful Malawians that value co-existence and contact and dialogue

We note that the mood just after the polling in May 2014 tripartite elections was tensed and affected social cohesion in many other ways. The electoral results continued to polarise the country as voting patterns showed, we, as a nation, had reverted to regional voting pattern that was negligible in the preceding 2009 general election. In this context, other sections of the society started calling for secession and other forms of governance, seeking to depart from the unitary state of nationhood for Malawi. This includes the calls for federal system of government.

Regardless of emotional attachment to such calls, during these six months, CCJP has noted, Malawians have held such discussions and debates peacefully and that there have been contact and dialogue initiatives allowing for freedom of expression and participation to flourish. Malawi, we must acknowledge, has continued to be a peaceful nation.

2. The spirit of resilience and a commitment to survival.

The public service delivery systems and process have been on the down turn for more years now. The quality and timeliness on services in education, health, water, and many others have been hugely compromised and neglected to the detriment of the poor who can’t afford privatised services. Compounded by natural disasters,  the livelihoods of Malawians are being pushed further the worst poverty levels. In most cases therefore, Malawi continues to present  sombre pictures of life struggles every day. CCJP notes with encouragement, however, that most Malawians have shown resilience and commitment to survival, a spirit that is worth commending considering the hard and tough times we have been going through and we seem not yet to get to the end of the tunnel.

3. An emerging critical and engaging citizenry

It is encouraging to note that Malawian citizens are no longer a “silent generation” just watching their state of livelihoods passing by. They are neither a mere complaining nation. There are emerging voices calling for accountability, transparency and responsiveness in many governance systems and structures. Whilst, the governors may not often times be comfortable with this emerging civic culture; CCJP notes, this is positive and it will ensure that those who govern must always recognise the views and the voices from those governed. Leaders at community, district and national structures can only ignore this emerging critical citizenry at its own peril. 

4. An emerging leadership seeking to deal with issues than personalities

In our contemporary Malawi, CCJP notes,  there is an emergence of new leadership seeking to grapple with the issues of socio-economic development that perennially impacting on the people of Malawi.  The holding of issue-based presidential, running-mates, parliamentary and local government debates during the tripartite elections campaigning period was the first step. The reference to the commitments, speeches and pronouncements made by the current government leadership on various governance issues by the Opposition political parties and by the CSO leadership, indicates a marked departure from the frequently used personality bashing politics or advocacy to issue-based engagement. It is assumed by CCJP, if sustained, this will help Malawi to collectively define its path to development as divisive politicking will be abandoned for progressive articulation of national policy issues.

3. Our Worries

Whilst recognising all these afore-mentioned joys and strengths of the people, as noted by CCJP; we however observe the following lows and major concerns overarching the socio-economic and political dynamics of Malawi. We, note, if not dealt with in the short, intermediate and long term perspectives, this country may be beginning another 50 years with minimal prospects of positive transformation

1. Cash gate and its Impact on the poor.

We, in CCJP look at cash gate from its attendant consequences on the poor, those that have always depended on government for the delivery of services, those who can’t afford privatised services. Donors have withdrawn aid because of cash gate resultantly poor people are suffering.

Those who participated in this looting of public resources must feel responsible for this worsening economic situation and the shrinking capacity of Malawi government in delivering quality and timely public services. Whilst government through its various governance structures is trying to sort out the mess (and for sure it must do so now!); we encourage Malawians to be vigilant on possible contemporary cash gate practices. We also appeal to donor partners to seriously consider the plight of the poor who are only on the receiving end of financial malpractices of their leaders and public servants. Under the spirit of solidarity, the poor Malawians need support and the legitimacy of this support can only be sent through government and other reliable non state actors. Therefore, development partners, we implore, should not abandon Malawi during its dire need. CCJP believes Malawi government needs financial resources from bilateral and multilateral partners to support its agenda for development whilst it is cleaning and strengthening its financial management systems.

2. Corruption

We in CCJP sadly note that corruption has slowly but surely, though painfully become the DNA of our society at all levels and all manners of society. Corruption has become endemic with a very critical negative impact on public life as there is no confidence from the public in public, private and non state officials and their systems. Many cries are heard from public utility institutions like immigration, road traffic, ESCOM, Water Boards and public hospitals among many other institutions, that no space is enough to list them here. It must be noted, however, that the impact of corruption as evidenced in cash gate scandal are more devastating on the economy and livelihood of the people especially the poor. We ask all Malawians to resist and stop corruption and they must also report corruption. We further ask government to put multifaceted strategies for the anti corruption drive. Having ACB is not enough, we need school curriculum on corruption, we need additional anti corruption drives that must permeate all sectors of our society.

3. Massive Deforestation

It has been noted that for the past 20 years the culture of planting trees has gone down and this has resulted in climate change. Forests like Dzalanyama, Chikangawa, Ndirande, Chikwawa escarpment and Dedza , among many others, are now bare. Compounding the situation is the over-dependency of most Malawians on natural forests for energy whilst Malawi has no alternative form of energy. Without reinforcements in tree replanting initiatives, we as a nation are bound to face desertification processes that will impact negatively on agriculture production which is the mainstay of our economy. CCJP notes, therefore that there is need for increasing budget allocations to the department forestry, initiating new corporate social responsibility interventions from investors dealing with forestation processes. The campaigns like “Make Malawi greener” need to be revamped. Furthermore, our country needs alternative sources of energy explored and implemented to reduce the dependency on the trees as source of energy.

4. Exploitation of small holder farmers

CCJP notes that Malawi governments have made commitments to hugely spend on Farm Input Subsidy program so that food security is ensured at both micro and macro levels. However, the absence of markets and properly regulated farm produce prices is leading to small holder farmers’ exploitation by private business people who seek farm produce at lower prices rendering the smallholder farmers profitless and entrenched further into poverty. CCJP acknowledges the liberalised economic policy framework Malawi adopted, however, we are still convinced that the economic policies must not be to the benefit of a few who already have, but rather must cater for the needs of the whole society. The state therefore must protect its citizens from the adverse pressure of the market by introducing mechanisms of ensuring that prices are regulated and that markets are available in most remote areas of Malawi.

5. Dysfunctional Local Government structures

CCJP appreciates the presence of councillors after a long period  of their absence. The presence of councillors will strengthen the local governance systems, structures and functions in the hope of delivery of development to communities. However, we note that within six months after elections; there is a clear manifestation of conflict of roles and conflict of interest between MPs and councillors in one part and between councillors and assembly technical personnel in another. The failure to clearly define and internalise the roles of MPs, councillors, traditional authorities coupled with the attendant conflict inherent in this lack of clarity in roles is a recipe for dysfunctionality of local governance structures across the country.

CCJP notes, there is need to call for transparency, accountability and provision of information among all stakeholders involved in the running of assemblies and development processes in various assemblies. There is also a greater need to build capacity of councillors to horn their skills for proper and informed debates in the assemblies. Therefore, development partners need to come in and help Malawi to have functional local governance systems and structures so as to fully realise the ideals of decentralization. It is not enough to have local governance structures and councillors in place; Malawi needs functional and responsive systems and structures.

6. Public Appointments

CCJP further notes that government continue to flaunt procedures in appointing people to various positions of public interest. Those appointed sometimes are also not consulted leading us to question the seriousness of the appointing authority as well as its legitimate expectations from the appointed people. Whilst, many commentators have argued that government can be inclusive and generate an integrated leadership representational framework; we in CCJP think, appointments of advocates on development and human rights and faith leaders has, in Malawi tended to cripple the conscious of the civil society and faith based movement in Malawi- it has also, sometimes paralysed and confused the “watchdog” role of the faith based institutions as well as the NGO movement.

Similarly, much as the state President His Excellency Prof. Peter Mutharika, in his inaugural speech he committed to promote gender equality, it is sad that only few women have been appointed in leadership positions. (For example out of 20 cabinet ministers 3 only are women). We think there must be a deliberate affirmative action for women leadership in various governance systems and structures than it is the case now.

We therefore implore the state leadership to proactively consider social inclusion, women participation, and maintenance of the doctrine of the separation of powers and roles in sustaining the consolidation of democracy in our country.

Furthermore, issues of redeployment are also worrisome to us as in some cases, two people are paid on the same post when the other one is just doing nothing. In some instances, some are redeployed to departments which do not match their skills or career path. This is resulting in wasting tax payer’s money and misallocation of human resource. CCJP has been always worried with the wastage of tax payers money and misallocation of human resource by almost all government administrations every time government administrations are changing.

7. Lack of National Policy agenda

CCJP seeks to remind the nation and the leadership of various governance structures that on the road to 2014 tripartite elections, the nation was agreeing of having a parliamentary act to establish an independent National Development Commission. It seems, six months down the ladder, this zeal is not observable in the current national discourse. CCJP is worried that continued politicization and personalization of development in Malawi have denied many communities the enjoyment and fulfilment of their right to development. To avoid further marginalization of some communities from the development processes, CCJP  is making a special appeal to the executive, parliamentarians, CSOs, FBOs and the general citizenry to re-engage into the dialogue needed for the development of the relevant national policy agenda and the much anticipated Independent National Development Commission.

Insecurity

The cries of most Malawians both in urban and rural communities, CCJP notes; is the issue of insecurity.  Insecurity has resulted into loss of life and property. We are saddened to note also an ambiguous role of security personnel in curbing insecurity as some crime is done right under their nose and is also reported by the media to having been perpetrated by police officers. We are actually surprised that, in our observations- it has become a tradition that once administration of government changes, the transition period is marred by heightened criminal cases. We therefore ask government and its cooperating partners that our Police should be capacitated in terms of funding so that they acquire necessary resources e.g vehicles, technology and equipment. At the same time proper deployment in the police service should be done. It seems there are a lot of traffic officers than Security police.

 We further implore for the role of community in combating crime since this, in our modern world is collective responsibility.

8. Strikes

CCJP notes, the numerous labour related strikes currently under way and others in the offing. Whilst CCJP acknowledges the right of employees to a just and fair wage, we would like to encourage engagement and dialogue between employers and employees to resolving their differences. Similarly, we believe proper appreciation of the employers economic strength in the meeting the ever growing employees’ demands is also needed.

Specifically, with our own government riddled with acute shortage of financial resources- striking staff should realise that government has a weaker capacity at the moment. Government must balance the demands and interests of various sectors of the population.

We, in CCJP however, seek to ask government and its other departments or branches like state houses, cabinet, parliament and judiciary etc. to be exemplary in their appetite for spending and living in luxurious life. It is unfair and unjust to deny increments of salaries elsewhere and in another approve rapid changes to salaries. Often times, this inherent contradiction within government structures is a recipe for being disgruntled and lukewarm approach to work that seriously affects effectiveness and efficiency in public service delivery. CCJP believes, we- the executive, the legislature, the judiciary and the general citizenry must collectively face the stringent measures needed to turn around our economy.

9. Poor Service Delivery

We sadly note that there are inefficiencies and sometimes seemingly gross negligence in public service delivery e.g. water, electricity and many other sectors to the point which it is raising the anger of consumers. Malawi citizens deserve better services and better services are a possibility in Malawi. However, we see a non committed leadership, insincere strategic planning and sometimes abuse of needed resources for better service deliveries.  CCJP believes results-based management could be helpful in these service providers and that service charters with communities would help improve the responsiveness of service providers. CCJP takes this to be a sad development when Malawian citizens have to pay for a service that is not available, a service that is unreliable and further more a service that is creating misery among people. In actual fact asking the poor to pay for the lavish living wages of those failing to fulfil better service delivery is a mockery to the integrity of the citizens. We in CCJP therefore ask government to strengthen its boards and ensure that they do not just exist in name but are also operational guiding the numerous service providers that are becoming a menace in our society.

10. Domestic Violence

CCJP is seriously worried that despite some increased efforts in raising awareness and in advocating for respect for human rights and the dignity of all; there is an increasing reporting of rape, incest, child marriage, child abuse and women battering. To continue to have our little girls and women abused physically, emotionally and economically is the undesired state of human relations that CCJP strives to curb. Therefore, there is need to put comprehensive laws and compliance mechanisms to deter these cases of domestic violence. Punitive measures must also consider the deterrent and corrective measure supposed to be inherent in all intentions of punishment. In addition, program interventions that must include boys and men in deconstructing their eschewed masculinity concepts are needed now than ever before to ensure effective collaboration between men and women in making societies better place for all.

11. Irresponsible and over exited Leadership

CCJP has observed with sadness and a heavy heart, the emergence of loud mouthed leaders among CSOs, FBOs, traditional and political, who are just excited with their leadership positions but are confusing the general citizenry with half truths and comments on national issues without substantial and verifiable evidence. Resultantly, Malawians are highlighting news about Malawi that do not support the cause of government or the majority poor Malawian people.

CCJP seeks to remind all Malawians regardless of their political divide that we all were asking for transformative leadership and not transactional leadership in all leadership structures and positions be they in FBOs, CSOs, parliament, judiciary and the executive. If we only abandon our responsibility to build a better Malawi and live this to few politicians in the executive, we will be passively participating in the impoverishment of Malawi. We can be excited in commenting on everything but we need to have our facts correct before participating in any public discourse. We need to be patriotic to our mother Malawi.

12. Limited patriotism

It is sad to note that the spirit of patriotism is shrinking in this country. We live like we have borrowed this country from elsewhere. With the shrinking spirit of patriotism is the growing spirit of irresponsibility as most Malawian people are no longer responsible. This is visible in physical vandalism (i.e removing road signs, urinating anywhere) and cash gate. It does appear to us that most people would love to enjoy their freedoms and rights without attendant responsibilities. Yet for this nation to develop and to improve we need committed people, we need patriots. We, in CCJP therefore call all people to radically change their senses of perception and patriotism; we must learn to love our mother land if we must transform Malawi. Without strong spirit of patriotism, we are killing the future of our children and future generations.

13. Role of Donors

The role of donors in developing countries like Malawi cannot be over emphasised but sometimes their role is ambiguous as they change their agenda from time to time.  The top down approach is not helping either. Objectivity of some of the policies is questionable as sometimes some policies do not reflect the local contextual needs. Additionally, recruitment of expatriates in position which Malawians ably can handle is denying many local citizens access to employment and use of different rates between locals and international staff in program delivery is a mockery to issues of equity and social justice. We therefore ask for proper regulation and dialogue between Malawi government and the cooperating donors so that there should not be ambiguity in their good works.

14. Human Trafficking and Illegal Immigrants

CCJP is further worried that trafficking of little girls is still continuing despite increased levels of awareness of such vice in our communities. Furthermore, the participation of Malawians in aiding illegal immigrants is a very sad development to our country especially in the context of Ebola and many other crimes occurring in Africa. Despite their illegality, the increased frequencies in the occurrences of these vices boarder around lack of patriotism, lack of respect for human dignity of others and sheer obsession with making monitory gains. CCJP wonders where our umunthu concept is in the face of personal riches.

15. Lack of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

There is absence of legal framework for investor’s corporate social responsibility in Malawi. As such investors are involved in the works that would have been under corporate responsibility but dealt with like charity work. A lot of companies make immoral profits but give back irrelevant CSR like sponsoring golf or buying a ticket for one person to go abroad to watch soccer. We are encouraging government to come out quickly with a legal and policy framework that is enabling for companies and communities to share resources for the development of all and mandate companies to commit to ploughing back to communities resources they extract from the same. Through properly regulated CSR, Malawi government can have its development efforts complimented by investors and in its absence, we are losing a lot.

4. Conclusion

We in CCJP bring these issues forward for government, parliament, CSOs, development partners, Malawi citizens in general to take stock of their roles, their commitments, their omissions and their vision as they ponder on these issues. One philosopher long time ago said “life unexamined is not worth living” It is this examination we are calling for so that Malawi becomes a better place to live in where the principles of transparency, accountability, responsiveness, the common good, solidarity with the poor and the marginalised are properly lived. We do hope that these issues will provoke dialogue and national interrogation worth bringing about the desired change to the status quo we live in today.

Another and a better Malawi is possible if we become responsible citizens that keep in check our leaders  as often times bad leadership is anchored by bad citizenry. God Bless mother Malawi

On behalf of the Justice and Peace Commission of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi

Chris Chisoni- National Secretary December 6, 2014.

Of Netball and Disciplinary Action

The Netball Association of Malawi, for good or worse, suspended Complex Tigresses from participating in competitions in 2013 and, by November 13 that year, the decision still stood.

What lessons did we learn from this issue, which came about because the association suspended one Tigresses player on suspicions that she was pregnant. The team subsequently boycotted a sponsored tournament, a decision that riled the netball association, forcing its hand into 'shaping' an animal called suspension. 

While some quarters questioned the decision, it was not wrong to be on the other side of the fence. More so because the issue regarding the suspension of Tigresses players from participating in national team assignments has been overblown because, to me, the issue is straight-forward: The Netball Association of Malawi (Nam) had to set a precedent so that our beloved Queens should be more careful in future.

 

In other words, Nam was right to effect the ban on the affected players. Why do I say so? I have five reasons, which will form the gist of my argument.

 

 

To begin with, we all know that athletes act as role models the world over. I can give the example of soccer where, recently, one of the promising midfielders who plays for English Premier League side, Jack Wilshere of Arsenal, was caught on camera smoking. Predictably, there was a backlash, despite the athlete’s protestations that he does not speak and that it was the first time for him to speak.

 

 

Why do you think the player’s behaviour attracted criticism from people? Whatever the reason you may give, it is a fact that one of those reasons is that Wilshere plays for the England national team and, as such, he is a model to many young people who aspire to develop into formidable players in the likes of Wilshere.

 

 

The case is, therefore, not different in Malawi. All athletes, irrespective of the sporting discipline, have to lead exemplary lives so that our children may learn from them.

 

 

Secondly, I think that Nam was justified because we, as a country, needed to set a precedent on how we want our netball players to behave, especially after landing sponsorship for the first time in the country’s history. Exemplary behaviour on part of our athletes will go a long way in inspiring our children to become responsible citizens of this country.

 

 

Thirdly, I strongly feel that the netball body did the right thing because, the way I understand it, this is what the rules that guide the management of netball in the country stipulate. Of course, Nam might have overstepped its mandate by becoming both the accuser and judge, which is against the rules of natural justice.

 

 

That notwithstanding, the netball body wanted to show that it will not undermine its own rules simply because players, or officials, involved are crucial to the success of netball in the country.

 

 

The forth reason is that the decision to choose netball players lies in the hands of the national team coaches. The decision to condemn Nam could, therefore, be rushed because we do not know whether the players were in the coaches’ plans or not. Why waste time when we are not sure about the views of the coaches?

 

 

The fifth, and last reason, is that, looking at the hot tempers that flared after Nam’s decision, there was need to let the tempers cool down before the players were considered for national assignment, and this is what Nam did.

 

 

Do you think that the players would have forgotten what happened? To say the truth, the players were, most likely, psychologically affected by the decision to treat them the way they were in Lilongwe. There was, therefore, need to let them recover from the same for them to contribute positively to the national netball team cause.

 

 

Forget about the Queens’ poor performance at Fast5 World Netball Series being held in New Zealand. I am sure that the players will be drafted back into the national team, and will be a part of the team for a long time to come.

 

 

In conclusion, I see nothing wrong with Nam’s decision. The best we can do is to learn from what happened, and forge ahead. As they say, we learn as we go!

Arts Festivals: For What?

They are the in-thing: Arts festivals.

But how beneficial?

Malawi has, for the past 10 years, hosted a number of arts festivals and entertainment events, among them the Lake of Stars, Chitsinda cha Ndakatulo, Land of Poets, Blantyre Arts Festival, the City of Stars, Sand Music Festival, among others. These festivals have, undoubtedly, contributed towards the development of the arts in the country.

For us to appreciate the extent to which these arts festivals and events have contributed towards arts’ development in Malawi, we just have to look at the positive impact of the Lake of Stars festival, which used to take place along the shores of Lake Malawi. I know of some foreign tourists who made it a point to put the event on their calendars, and come to Malawi whenever the festival was in season.

This means, apart from having fun, they were bringing the much-needed foreign currency into the country, thereby contributing towards the economic development of Malawi. Apart from bringing foreign currency, these people, as well as local patrons, were buying merchandise from curios sellers, painters staying in these areas. I think we all appreciate the fact that we, as a country, have been unable to fend for ourselves for close to 50 years now.

During these 50 years, we have grown so much used to hand-outs that we see no reason to fend for ourselves. That is why, in these 50 years, we have not explored other means of generating more income, apart from punishing the few that work through taxes, including foreign exchange.

Do you think that we will sing the song of maximising income from mining, agriculture and education, among other areas, for ever? No. And that is where events such as arts festivals come in. While it could be true that resources generated through these festivals and events, especially when they involve foreign patronage, are not enough, it is equally true that the foreign exchange that we get through such festivals trickle into the country quicker than financial assistance from development partners.]

This, dear reader, is what arts festivals such as Lake of Stars, Chitsinda cha Ndakatulo, Blantyre Arts Festival, City of Stars, Sand Music Festival, Land of Poets, among others, try to achieve, and to good measure.

Breeding ground

Just recently, Malawi played host to the City of Stars and Sand Music Festival. One of the interesting aspects about these events was the bringing together of local and international artists. 

While the foreign acts invited to perform were, rather, big names already, I found it refreshing to see organisers of, say, Sand Music Festival, include the likes of Joe Gwaladi and other artists who are often overlooked and given a cold shoulder among the list of performers. Apart from these ‘forgotten” but great artists, those who took some time off their daily chores and trekked to Mangochi were entertained by the likes of Achikulire Che Paul Banda as well as foreign artists.

Now, that is what we call developing the arts industry because established artists, budding artists, and foreign artists were brought to the same stage. The same was the case with City of Stars in Lilongwe, where, apart from local artists, a region of foreign artists entertained patrons who were fortunate enough to be in the Capital City.

Not to be outdone, Blantyre artists also organised their own fiesta,  in the name of the Blantyre Arts Festival. The festival was launched by Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture, Rachel Mazombwe Zulu. This festival, coming barely a month after the commercial city also played host to the Land of Poets festival, really helped expose unexplored talents in the country. 

It comes as no surprise, therefore, to hear people such as Sand Music Festival director, Sir Lucius Banda, saying that such events have gone a long way in uplifting the status of artists in the country by, among other benefits, learning from foreign artists who brush shoulders with them. 

Do we need to say that the local artists who perform at these events also receive an appearance fee, thereby improving their economic status? No. That is obvious I think. The fact remains that these events benefit our artists more than they would have had they stayed home. They interact with their fans, a rare chance, share the stage with foreign artists, and earn money for themselves.

Nascent industry

If the truth be told, Malawi is still far behind when it comes to the development of the arts. Not that we do not have the talent; we have, but it is raw talent. In other words, our artists need to be nurtured, and festivals that attract foreign performers serve as an eye-opener to our artists.

Artists such as South African musician Big Nuz and Zambia’s B 1- who, unfortunately, failed to make it to the Sand Music Festival this year- Zambia’s Organised Family and Zimbabwe’s Nikki do not just perform at every street event. It is, therefore, insulting to criticise people who are doing a lot to promote arts in the country by bringing these artists.

In a country where the importance of having music schools and other forms of art is yet to be appreciated, Malawians have no choice but to appreciate the role of these events and festivals.

Those who feel that these festivals and events do not do our country any good do not understand what it takes to promote the arts. In the absence of a Culture Policy, what else can we do? 

My appeal, therefore, is that Malawians should continue patronising these events. It is through such participation that we may appreciate how the arts shape society. Perhaps what we need, as has been suggested by the Director of Culture in the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Culture, Elizabeth Gomani Chindebvu, is to harmonise the organisation of festivals and like events. If we do this, we will be able to analyse the contribution of such events to the national economy.

It is clear, therefore, looking at the increased number of Malawians who are patronising arts festivals and other entertainment events, that arts festivals and like events have captivated the interest of Malawians. If nurtured, they can, inevitably contribute towards economic development in the country.

The Political Art of Forsaking Success

It must be a practice engraved at the back of the Malawian leader's mind.

Or else, how could a country fall into the trap of abandoning projects introduced by others?

Sadly, this is the state of affairs in the State. Every time a new leader comes into the public circle, old plans are abandoned with abandon, and new plans embraced with long, tiny arms. It must be one of the symptoms of the disease called democracy. Or, is it not?

Samples of this regrettable behaviour are strewn along Malawi's democratic path. Take, for instance, the issue of change of government on May 30, 2014. 

No, let's start with April 7, 2014, when former president Joyce Banda inherited the 'hot' seat. She jumped into the pot when water was boiling at boiling point. Among other things, the economic situation was hopeless. What more evidence does one need than the spectacle of never-ending fuel queues, a shrinking economy, fuming development partners were some of the things that characterised that dark period in Malawi’s democratic history.

Indeed, for the first time in Malawi’s democratic history, some ill-minded Malawians cerebrated when a sitting president died. This was against our tradition, which encourages us to respect the dead, but one could forgive such people owing to the fact that the situation Malawi was in before that sad event was catastrophic.

Do not get me wrong. I am not backing those who cerebrated after getting the news that an important person in the land had died. I am just emphasising the point that things had gone out of hand and all those who cared about Malawi understood the situation very well.

So, having realised that things had gone out of hand and that the nation needed to take immediate action, the then president, Dr. Banda, came up with the idea of developing a plan that would put Malawi back on the path of economic development. Hence, the Economic Recovery Plan (ERP) was conceptionalised and launched with pomp.

I remember very well that local economic experts and development partners hailed the ERP, which came after the Joyce Banda administration had already followed the International Monetary Fund’s advice to devalue the local currency soon after the former president was sworn in.

It is not understatement that the situation improved and things started picking up. It is also not an understatement that the ERP was one of the strategies that helped the situation to stabilise.

Misdirected politics

It is against this background that I fault the current administration of President Peter Mutharika for deciding to abandon the ERP. 

Without mincing words, the current administration has just thrown a winning formula to the dogs.

I don’t think the current administration has good grounds for discarding this initiative, especially when it is clear that it helped clean the economic mess left behind by the other Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration. I have a strong feeling that the decision has been made to perpetuate the spirit of dirty politics that all the new administrations have heartlessly promoted.

I say so because when the United Democratic Front (UDF) was voted into power in 2004, it abandoned not only the bad policies implemented by the Malawi Congress Party regime; it also abandoned the good ones. Apart from changing the policies, it also changed personnel whose only duty was to implement the technical side of government’s programmes.

Indeed, when the DPP became the ruling party through the back door in 2005, it also discarded not only UDF’s policies; it demoted and even fired people who could have helped in advancing the country’s development agenda.

We saw history repeating itself when the People’s Party administration became Malawi’s new master. We saw a number of public officers being fired, or demoted despite protestations from commentators. We also saw the government lose millions through payments made to those who were unfairly dismissed.

Sadly, the so-called DPP regime is at it again. It has abandoned the ERP.

Malawians should just brace for the worst because we don’t know what else the new administration will temper with. This is dirty politics at play.

Don't kill the boy!

What this administration needs to do is not discarding good initiatives such as the ERP. It needs to adopt the positives and do away with the negatives.

As someone who has worked with international NGOs, I have become acquainted with terms such as Best Practices. Those who value Best Practices realise that there are positives from every project or initiative, no matter how ill-conceived or bad the project/initiative was.

By adopting Best Practices, and leaving out the Worst Practices, we have seen organisations and even countries achieve sustainability economically, socially, politically etcetera, thereby ensuring that developments do not stall but continue.

Why can’t we do the same by adopting Best Practices, even from political opponents we don’t like?

There is no reason to abandon the ERP because, truthfully speaking, the new administration is yet to show us that it can change things. We cannot say that the economy has picked up. We cannot say that we have drugs in public hospitals. We cannot say that the electricity blackouts are now history.

So why abandon the ERP when the situation has not changed? As things stand now, we know that donors have not released the much-needed aid, and that we may work on a Zero-Deficit Budget.

It is, therefore, not justifiable to abandon the ERP. 

Malawians should realise that not everything associated with the Madam Banda regime was bad. I don’t think, for example, that the High Level Development Council which was launched in January is a bad idea.

We need to maintain such programmes for the sake of the nation and development. We are all Malawians.

In conclusion, it is high time we embraced civilised politics and stopped initiatives launched by people we don’t like for the sake of it. Government is a going concern.

This must be the beginning of a new beginning!