NAP urges Chakwera’s Tonse Govt to act decisively on Catholic Bishop concerns
LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s good governance thinktank National Advocacy Platform (NAP) has urged President Lazarus Chakwera’s Tonse alliance government to act decisively on concerns Malawi Catholic Church Bishops have raised.
In a press statement issued on Monday, February 26, 2024, and signed by NAP chairperson Benedicto Kondowe observes that the clergy raised issues of national importance that cannot be overlooked.
“As the National Advocacy Platform (NAP), we stand at the forefront of advocating for the rights and welfare of all Malawians. While recognizing the positive strides of the Tonse government, we cannot overlook the urgent concerns voiced in the recent pastoral letter from the Catholic Bishops of Malawi and echoed by various stakeholders.
“The government must take heed of the call for cautious action on issues such as governance, corruption, and leadership accountability. Despite commendable efforts, there remain significant challenges that demand immediate attention and decisive action,” reads the NAP statement in part.
Kondowe urges, “We call upon the government to demonstrate servant leadership and empathy towards the daily struggles of Malawians. The voices of the marginalized and vulnerable must not only be heard but acted upon through concrete steps to address their needs.
“Furthermore, while acknowledging the achievements of the Tonse government, we stress the importance of remaining vigilant and proactive in addressing concerns highlighted by the Bishops and NAP in previous statements and engagements”.
He adds, “Only by doing so can we ensure sustained progress and prosperity for all citizens. As we envision the future, let us collaborate in building a nation grounded in integrity, justice, and peace. The National Advocacy Platform remains steadfast in championing the interests of all Malawians and holding our leaders accountable.
“May our collective efforts pave the way for a brighter future for every Malawian.NAP eagerly anticipates constructive dialogue on the concerns raised not only in the pastoral letter but also by similar voices and stakeholders”.
In the pastoral letter issued on Sunday, February 25, 2024, Catholic bishops accused Chakwera’s Tonse leadership of failing to take advice in running affairs of the state.
The men of God compared Malawi at present to Bagamoyo, a slavery point in Tanzania during the colonial era when life was hard for ordinary people.
