…religious leaders want LMC until 2023
By Temwanani Gondwe
As presidential elections draw near, several religious leaders have come out clearly, saying Malawi is better off with President Lazarus Chakwera at the helm than returning to the dark days of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
Interviews conducted with religious leaders from different denominations across the country indicate that Chakwera is enjoying popular support among fellow clergy because of his calm approach to national matters.
A priest under Blantyre Archdiocese currently leading a mission in Mulanje said Chakwera’s leadership style is unique and different from all the past presidents as Malawians were used to politics of insults.
“The country has seen a significant change in political discourse since Chakwera took office. Unlike in the past when presidential podiums were used to castigate opposition leaders and others with different views on state matters, Chakwera always preaches peace and coexistence,” said the Catholic cleric.
Similarly, Reverend Elias Ngwira of the Nkhoma Synod in central Malawi stated that Chakwera has brought a refreshing approach to governance, ensuring that state functions are no longer battlegrounds for political fights but platforms for national development.
“In the past, we saw presidents using government events to attack their critics and intimidate citizens. Today, we have a leader who believes in engaging all Malawians, regardless of their political or religious affiliations,” said Ngwira.
Pastor Rose Banda of a Pentecostal church in Mzuzu echoed the same sentiments, stating that under Chakwera’s leadership, Malawi has seen a shift towards respect for democratic values and human rights.
“We do not hear of political violence and abductions of critics anymore. Chakwera has set a new tone for governance, and we cannot afford to go back to a time when freedom of speech was under threat,” said Banda.
Bishop John Phiri of an evangelical church in Mangochi emphasised that beyond political rhetoric, Chakwera has demonstrated a strong commitment to uplifting the lives of Malawians through various economic interventions.
“There is a sense of stability in the country now. We may still be facing economic hardships, but at least there is a clear vision. Unlike in the past when government officials were enriching themselves through corruption, we see a president who is determined to clean up the system,” said Phiri.
Political analyst Dr. Timothy Makawa concurred with the religious leaders, stating that Chakwera’s leadership has brought a level of maturity to Malawi’s democracy.
“For the first time in years, Malawians are seeing a leader who listens, a leader who does not spend time exchanging insults with opponents. Instead, he focuses on governance. The opposition has been struggling to find a solid ground to attack him because he does not entertain political bickering,” said Makawa.
He further warned Malawians against entertaining the idea of returning to the past, saying it would be a dangerous gamble.
“We must not be fooled by nostalgic sentiments. The DPP era was marred by corruption scandals, suppression of dissent, and disregard for human rights. Chakwera may not be perfect, but he is undoubtedly a better choice for Malawi,” added Makawa.
With such endorsements from religious leaders and political analysts, it is evident that many Malawians appreciate Chakwera’s leadership style and are not willing to revert to the chaotic past. The call for continuity is growing louder, and the coming elections will determine whether Malawians want to build on the progress made or take a leap into uncertainty.