Chakwera Apologize To Bisnowaty Over Racism Remarks From MCP MP’s

Chakwera

Leader of Opposition in the National Assembly and President of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Lazarus Chakwera made a statement on Monday evening offering a word of apology and condemn the racism remarks uttered in the house on Thursday last week to Lilongwe City Centre legislature David Bisnowaty.

Chakwera called for unity among members while reminding the House that everyone in the House is a Malawian entrusted with a role by Malawians to be their representative.

He warned his members not to use racism words because such words may cause dangerous repercussions to the country in future.

"In as much as one understands the intervention made by the Hon. Member of Lilongwe City Center, the instantaneous emotive responses from some members of the MCP can also be appreciated, particularly when one feels that a leader's economic policies to meet the needs of those he led are belittled and that leader is dead and cannot respond for himself. Its almost like someone insulting your father in your face and you are expected not to react." Said Chakera

He then condemned utterances that are deemed to demean or denigrate anyone in the chamber regardless of the perceived provocation saying MCP exists to promote development, help consolidate democracy and protect the dignity of every person.

"Our Founding President used to admonish all Malawians to live together in peace and harmony. He would especially single out those whose origin

and culture may be different from typical Malawian to be treated with respect. While many point to human rights abuses during the one party rule as a reason to haul insults on present day MCP, I appeal to all of us to be careful with the language we employ as fights can get started over very trivial matters as human history demonstrates." He said

"As a believer in Jesus Christ and a theologian cum politician, I can state that there is but one human race, regardless of the color of one's skin and/or cultural and religious beliefs. I believe, in forgiveness because I have been forgiven all my sins through the death of Jesus

Christ. I ask all Malawians everywhere and that includes the Hon. Member here to forgive the Malawi Congress Party of all past atrocities. I take responsibility as President of all the sins of my fathers." he said 

Chakwera then called members to focus on finding ways to move the country in the right direction and not waste time outwitting each other as to how best the furniture should be arranged "I personally believe that it is better to be hurt by the truth rather than to find comfort in lies." Added Chakwera

Chakwera needed to apologize because the racism remarks came from members of Parliament from MCP the party which he leads.

On Thursday some MCP legislatures called fellow legislature hon Bisnowaty 'foreigner' when he made a comment in the House on food situation during late Hastings Kamuzu Banda founder and father of Malawi who also was President for MCP.

Nankhumwa

Deputy Leader of the House Hon Kondwani Nankhumwa said the insults were both unfortunate and discriminatory to the choice of people of Lilongwe City Centre Constituency.

Joining him, People’s Party (PP) through Honorable Agnes Nyalonje while praising the Leader of Opposition for offering “sufficient apology of what was done” said PP committed to observe non-racial approaches to development.

Nyalonje condemned in no uncertain terms any act and expression of racism, and called every party in the House to subscribe to the concept of non-racial development because without racial unity Malawi cannot have development. 

Speaker of the National Assembly Richard Maowoya said he ordered deletion of the remarks from the Hansard immediately the matter was brought to his attention.

While bemoan with the recent trend of slurs even directed at the chairmanship of the House Msowoya noted that although members are protected and are supposed to uphold freedom of speech members should make responsible language in the House. 

Accepting the apology David Bisnowaty said never expected from anybody in such a respectful House and in the beautiful country where he has spent many years and where he gave his own citizenship to become a Malawi citizen to make racism sentiments against him.

In an interview, the only cabinet minister who was present in the house when remarks were being said, Grace Chiumia said racism remarks are uncalled for and needs to stop.

She said people settling in the country are contributing immensely to the development of the country through their businesses that are creating job to youths. 

Malawi Confirm Third Death in South Africa's Xenophobia Violence

 One more Malawian confirmed dead in South Africa's Xenophobic violence bringing total number of Malawian casualties in the ongoing bloody attacks against foreign African nationals to three (3).

Malawi Government in a statement confirms the death of the man Charles Toni aged 24 years and he hails from Chipole Village, Traditional Authority Maganga in Salima District. 

Kondwani Nankhumwa 

Information, Tourism and Culture Minister Kondwani Nankhumwa says the deceased was stabbed to death in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa on 22nd April, 2015 and was laid to rest on 23rd April, 2015.

The Malawi Government Spokesperson further says the Government of Malawi through its High Commission office in South Africa, is still trying to establish the facts surrounding the death of another Malawian reportedly run over by a moving train in South Africa.

Nankhumwa says the circumstances surrounding his death will be made available as soon government establishes more facts on the matter.

The Government of Malawi continues to repatriate Malawians who have been affected by xenophobic attacks in South Africa as eight (8) more buses will arrive this Friday, 24th April, 2015 with 532 returnees.

However, the Information Minister says the buses were initially carrying 509 returnees from Durban but when they got to Beit Bridge in South Africa they came across and picked up 23 Malawians who were stranded there without proper travel documents.

South Africa Xenophobic Violence:Malawi’s Repatriation Budget Keeps on Rising...From K30M to K195M

The Malawi victims of the ongoing Xenophobia violence in the republic of South Africa keeps on rising so does the costs to repatriate them back home.

From K30 million as a cost of ferrying citizens escaping violence, the figure rose to more than double last week and now has gone to K195 million.

First six buses for Malawians who freely accepted to come back escaping the ongoing attacks have been expected to arrive in the afternoon in Blantyre at Kwacha Social Welfare Centre and are totaling 390. 

Malawi government says K195 million is now the cost of hiring of the busses to ferry its citizens from South Africa.

Minister of Information, Tourism and Culture Hon. Kondwani Nankhumwa revealed this morning in Lilongwe at a press briefing that there are now 3,200 Malawi victims and two confirmed deaths but the number may continue to rise.

Nankhumwa says the buses, which have a seating capacity of 65 each, cost an average of R100, 000 per bus but approximately 50 buses are needed which translates into R5 million or MK195 million.

“We are currently estimating K195 million for the hiring of the buses and the figures will continue to rise but we have the money in place” he said

“So far we are talking of the figure 3,200 even more who have been affected and two death have been confirmed of Malawians and one of them was already laid to rest on Wednesday”

“Day by day we continue to discover that there are more Malawians for example we had a figure of 90 then went up to 120 then 1000 so as we are speaking now is 3,200 which means this is necessitating the rise again in the economic cost of it”

The Minister has since identified one of the deceased person as Adam Kaunga from Chilipa in Mangochi  district and was laid to rest on Wednesday, but Government is yet to establish identity of the other body that is still is still at the mortuary.

He added that another one person was seriously injured and is in a Plaster of Paris (POP). He is too afraid to seek medical attention while expressing Government deepest sympathy and condolences to families of the deceased.

According to the government plan, the returnees who are to arrive in Blantyre will be separated with those coming from other regions being ferried to their regions of origin as per their choice.

Meanwhile, Hon Nankhumwa has confirmed that Malawian foreign minister will be meeting South African counterpart later this week but Secretary for Foreign Affairs is already in South Africa to discuss with his counterpart on the agenda to be discussed when the two ministers meet. 

As some angry Malawians are to hold anti-Xenophobia demonstrations in the capital, Lilongwe this Tuesday where a petition is to be delivered to South African Ambassador, the Minister has asked the demonstrators to exercise caution and conduct their protests in “free and fair” manner without attaching any form of violence to it.

“We maintain Malawi is a peace loving nation, we undertake freedom of association, freedom of expression which is there and freedom of demonstration which is there. We don’t intend to block anyone from doing this, they are exercising their rights.” He said

The Government Spokesperson has assured peace and security for all foreigner’s and their businesses whether of South Africans or others.

AU Decry Xenophobic Violence In South Africa

As acts of violence by South African citizens targeting foreign African nationals continue to soar in areas like KwaZulu Natal in South Africa, the African Union (AU) has condemned the attacks and call for immediate halt.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma has described the attacks of foreign nationals specifically in the province of KwaZulu Natal in South Africa as “unacceptable, and unfortunate,” more particularly now as celebrations of Africa month approaches on 25 May where people remember the founding of the Organisation of African Unity, which played such a critical role in mobilizing international solidarity for the end of Apartheid.

Through AU Commission statement released on Thursday 16th April, 2015, Dlamini Zuma also says xenophobic attacks in South Africa are unacceptable whatever the challenges are, adding that no circumstances justify attacks on people, whether foreigners or locals. 

The Commission Chairperson has emphasized that challenges faced by South Africa, like poverty and unemployment, are equally experienced by all countries on the continent and needs all African nationals to work together to address these, and build a better future for all Africans. 

While appealed for dialogue in and amongst communities, to address the challenges and find peaceful solutions, the AU Commission welcomes the interventions from the South African government, including the deployment of the Inter-Ministerial committee to KwaZulu Natal to engage with those affected and with local communities, as well as the deployment of more police to instill peace and order.

Currently, Malawi government indicates about 420 Malawians are reportedly affected and are in temporary camps in South Africa. Only three (3) Malawians were seriously injured, one person heavily injured but the figure is expected to rise.

Minister of Information, Tourism and Culture hon Kondwani Nakhumwa says, Government of Malawi has set aside K30 million for the repatriation of its citizens wishing to return home voluntarily, escaping anti-immigrant (xenophobic) attacks.

Department of Disaster and Management Affairs is to coordinate the repatriation process with immediate effect and the returnees are expected this weekend.

Nankhumwa further says the Malawian Consulate and the High Commissioner’s office in South Africa are working hand in hand with the South African government on monitoring and assessing the situation on the ground on the production of temporally travel documents for the victims.

420 Malawians Affected in Xenophobic Attacks, MW Govt Budget K30 Million In Repatriation Of Victims

The Government of Malawi has set aside K30 million for the repatriation of Malawians who want to return home voluntarily escaping anti-immigrant (xenophobic) attacks in Durban, South Africa.

This is according to a statement signed by Hon Kondwani Nankhumwa Minister of Information and Culture who indicates that official reports from the offices of the Malawian Consulate and High Commission to South Africa as of 14th April 2015, about 420 Malawians were reported to be affected and are in temporary camps in South Africa.

The statement further says so far only three (3) Malawians have been reported to be seriously injured, one person  heavily injured. And the minister has however said the figure of Malawians who have been affected is expected to rise.

The victims are said to have lost almost all their property, including travel documents in the attacks.

According to Nankhumwa, the Government of Malawi has decided to  to hire six (6) buses from South Africa to be used to ferry people who voluntarily want to be repatriated to Malawi.

The statement says, Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC) has directed the Department of Disaster and Management Affairs to coordinate the repatriation process with immediate effect.

Nankhumwa further says the Malawian Consulate and the High Commissioner’s office in South Africa are working hand in hand with the South African government on monitoring and assessing the situation on the ground on the production of temporally travel documents for the victims.

The government spokes person further adds that the buses are expected to arrive in Malawi from South Africa with the returnees on Sunday and the Government of Malawi has identified two centres in Lilongwe at Social Welfare in Malangalanga and Blantyre at Kwacha Social Welfare near Njamba as places where the buses will drop off the returnees from South Africa.

The Government of Malawi will also organize transport for the returnees to return to their respective homes says Nankhumwa.

"The Malawian Mission in South Africa is conducting the screening process which includes identification of individuals in order to fast track border crossing as well as identification of an individual’s home of origin. The Malawi Government is committed to ensuring the safe return of all Malawians who have been affected by the recent xenophobic attacks in South Africa." Added the Minister

World Wildlife Day: Malawi Govt Postpone Burning of Ivory

The Government of Malawi has postponed plans to burn 4 tonnes of seized ivory as part of this year’s commemoration of the World Wildlife Day.

The day being commemorated under the theme ‘Time to Get Out with Wildlife Crime’ was to be marked by torching of 4 tons of seized ivory in demonstrating to the world that Malawi is determined to eradicate wildlife crime and prevent seized ivory from getting back into hands of illicit wildlife traders.

President Mutharika has been expected to set to light the stock pile of ivory equated to roughly 500 elephants at Parliament buildings after solidarity walk from Capital Hotel roundabout.

However, a statement signed by, Hon Kondwani Nankhumwa, Minister of Information, Tourism and Culture, says this postponement is due to a slight change in the programme of the event as a consequence of new information that has emerged.

"The commemorations will proceed as planned. But the burning of the ivory has been postponed because Government has been advised that another 2.6 tonnes of ivory is still in the system as exhibits awaiting conclusion of cases which are pending in the courts." Says Nankhumwa

"Once these cases are concluded, all 6.6 tonnes of the ivory will be destroyed all together at a time and date to be announced in future." He continued 

"While Government remains committed to fight wildlife crime, including protection of iconic species of elephants and rhinos, which are key for tourism promotion in Malawi, it is important that the entire stockpile of ivory is destroyed once and for all." Further reads the statement 

Bishop Zuza

Who Was He?

Late Bishop Zuza: his
death is a great shock

Thursday 15 January 2015 am on holiday, its John Chilembwe day. I cannot remember the exact time by now, but I’m convinced must be around 16:00hrs when my former colleague at Radio Maria Malawi met me somewhere at Area 18 in the Capital Lilongwe. In simple and straightforward but hard to believe “Akuti ambuye Zuza amwalira pangozi” (Bishop Zuza has died in an accident)

I got my phone and call Acting Secretary for Episcopal Conference of Malawi Fr. Emmanuel Chimombo because I knew his response will be authentic.

“Yes, His Lordship Bishop Joseph Mukasa Zuza was involved in an accident and was taken to hospital some few hours ago.” He responded “And has passed on” he said in his second sentence and said he is sending me an email announcing the death of the Bishop I have known for a very long time.

4:46 PM email Subject: Death Announcement - Bishop Zuza

Dear brethren,

Find attached sad news from the ECM.

Please help us inform Christians and all people who should know

                                Death Announcement

                     BISHOP JOSEPH MUKASA ZUZA

The Catholic Secretariat of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi regrets to announce the tragic death of Rite Reverend Bishop Joseph Mukasa Zuza, who was bishop of Mzuzu Diocese and Chairman for the Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM).

According to report, Bishop Zuza was involved in a road accident and has passed on while being attended in Mzuzu.

More information and details shall follow later.

MAY HIS SOUL REST IN ETERNAL PEACE

____________________________________________

                                  UTHENGA WACHISONI

                      AMBUYE JOSEPH MUKASA ZUZA

Bungwe la Maepiskopi a Mpingo Wa Katolika - Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) – ili ndi chisoni kukudziwitsani za imfa ya Olemekezeka Ambuye Joseph Mukasa ZUZA amene anali episkopi wa Dayosizi ya Mzuzu komanso Wapampando wa Bungwe la Maepiskopi aKatolika m’Malawi (ECM).

Malinga ndi uthenga umene talandira, Ambuye Zuza anachita ngozi ya galimoto ndipo amwalira pamene anali kulandira hithandizo kuchipatala ku Mzuzu.

Fr Andrew KAUFA

COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY – ECM

That was the exact content of the message

This was a shocking message, at 16:24 George Mkondiwa, Chief Secretary to the Government, responded “Fr., Received with immense sadness.”

Later, 19:25 hrs another email from government

H.E CONDOLENCE MESSAGE  ON DEATH OF BISHOP ZUZA

His Excellency the President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has learnt with deep shock at the untimely death of the Right Reverend Bishop Joseph Mukasa Zuza, of Mzuzu Diocese of the Catholic Church and current Chairman of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi who died in a tragic car accident on Thursday, 15^th January 2015.

The President joins all Malawians in expressing condolences and great sympathy to the family, the Catholic Church and the greater Malawi on the loss of a patriotic and development conscious Church Leader who was a partner of Government. The President is greatly saddened by this loss and joins all Malawians in mourning the passing of one the finest sons of the Nation.

The Government will stand shoulder to shoulder with the Catholic Church and all Malawians during this difficult moment for our country.

May His Soul Rest in Peace

KONDWANI NANKHUMWA, MP

MINISTER OF INFORMATION, TOURISM & CULTURE

GOVERNMENT SPOKESPERSON

15^TH JANUARY 2015

The death of Bishop Zuza is a great shock to both Catholics and non Catholics. He was a great Bishop who at an appropriate time could bravely speak against every wrong doing by government without fear or favour. Could applaud government when indeed the church saw it necessary to do so. He always ensured that there is justice.

Late Bishop Zuza
(pic by ECM)

The Late Zuza made Catholic faithful in Malawi Proud mid 2014 when Malawi hosted AMECEA plenary! The list of Late Bishop Zuza’s achievements is endless.

According to ECM Communication Officer Mr. Prince Henderson Rt. Rev Bishop Zuza was driving to his base, Mzuzu, from visiting his home village, Mhlafuta in Embangeni Mzimba “The Bishop's car registration number,MZ 6022 rear tyre burst causing the vehicle to swerve and get out of his control. His Lordship was in the process forced out of the car. This took place at Nthungwa, in the Chikangawa forest Reserve.”

In an updated death announcement Catholic Secretariat of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) His Lordship Joseph Mukasa Zuza, Bishop for the Catholic Diocese of Mzuzu and Chairman for ECM. Bishop Zuza passed on at Saint John Hospital on 15th January 2015.

According to ECM Information Officer In 2010 Bishop Zuza's diocese was split, partly out of a desire to ease transportation problems in the area.

Mr. Henderson’s information pertaining to the life of Bishop Zuza indicates that when the Diocese of Karonga was erected that year from territory of the Mzuzu diocese, Bishop Zuza said the split was "necessary, because it is quite taxing to travel to some places from headquarters." He described difficult travel on poor roads in all-terrain vehicles to parishes as far as 250 miles away.

He said in addition to having been Bishop of Mzuzu, in Malawi's north, Bishop Zuza was, until his death, president of the Episcopal Conference of Malawi, since 2011.

He pointed out that Bishop Zuza participated in the extraordinary Synod on Family that concluded last October, where he spoke up for Catholic teaching on family sought to uphold the sanctity of the Sacrament of marriage. A conservative and promoter of culture and traditions, the African prelate had expressed concerns over Western influence affecting African culture, particularly on the issues of homosexuality and same-sex marriage.

He also mention that during the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Mzuzu Diocese, Archbishop Nicola Girasoli, then Apostolic Nuncio to Zambia and Malawi, lauded Bishop Zuza's pastoral initiatives for the faithful, saying that "during these years of visiting Mzuzu, the diocese has been very well managed and very well organized."

The Prefecture Apostolic of Northern Malawi was erected in 1947, and was elevated to the status of the Diocese of Mzuzu in 1961. It currently holds a Catholic population of 400,000.

In addition ECM has also pointed number of positions Bishop Zuza’s has held in the Church on local and regional (AMECEA) level.

On local level, he once served as Vice Chairman of ECM; Chairman for Justice and Peace Commission (CCJP); Chairman for Education Commission; Chairman for the Mixed Commission. On regional level he once served as Malawi Delegate in the AMECEA Executive Board; Chairman of AMECEA Staffing Committee (2008 – 2011); As Chairman for ECM Right Rev. Joseph Mukasa Zuza has died while serving as Chancelor of the Catholic University of Malawi (CUNIMA). On Saturday, 10th January, Bishop Zuza inaugurated the Jubilee Year for Kachebere Major Seminary.

Requiem Mass

Requiem mass for his repose shall be held on Monday, 19th January 2015, at St Peters Cathedral in Mzuzu, starting from 10.00 AM. Burial shall be held at Katoto, near the bishop’s house.

His Excellency, The Most Reverend Archbishop Julio Murat, The Apostolic Nuncio for Malawi and Zambia will preside the Requiem mass.

Right Reverend Zuza was born on 22 October 1955 at Malembo Village, T.A. Chief Mbelwa, Mzimba District; ordained priest on 25 July 1982; appointed Bishop of Mzuzu on 9th March 1995 by Saint. John Paul II and consecrated on 6th May 1995.

“The Episcopal Conference of Malawi (ECM) shall remember him as a Bishop who waskind-hearted, cheerful and always available to everyone.” Reads the announcement signed by Fr Emmanuel Chimombo Acting Secretary General

May the Soul of Right Rev. Joseph Mukasa Zuza Rest in Eternal Peace.

MW’s Economy Signals Improvements; Official Reserves Months Import cover Rises to 3.38, Private Foreign Reserve at 1.7

Gvt believes monetary policies at work

The Malawi Government boasts that sound economic policies and government strategic thinking as spearheaded by President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika has resulted into the current “tremendous” improvement in the official and private foreign reserves.

Hon Kondwani Nakhumwa

Minister of Information Tourism and Culture Kondwani Nankhumwa said in a statement Malawi has yet again registered another improvement on official and private foreign reserves translating into greater import cover “as never seen before” in the country’s history.

This follows the rising of official foreign reserves to USD646.26 million as of Wednesday 14^th January 2015. The rise translates into an import cover of 3.38 months and the private sector official foreign reserves are at USD325.94 million translating into an import cover of 1.71 months.

“Cumulatively, it means the country has a total of USD972.16 million in foreign reserves translating into an import cover of 5.1 months.” indicated Nankhumwa

According to Reserve Bank of Malawi Financial Market Developments statistics on Wednesday, Gross Official Reserves increased during the week ending 9th January 2015 compared to the preceding week. The Gross Official Reserves stood at US$607.95 million (3.18 months of imports) as at 9th January, 2015 compared to US$606.19 million (3.17 months of imports) recorded on 2nd January, 2015. The Gross Official Reserves went up further and stood at US$646.22 million (3.38 months of imports) as at Monday, 12th January, 2015.

Gross Official Foreign Reserves from 2nd Jan-12th Jan 2015 (by RBM)

Compare between December 19 to 30th 2014 Statistics

Gross Official Foreign Reserves from 19th Dec-24th Dec 2014 (by RBM)

The current private sector foreign exchange reserve import cover of $325.94 translating to 1.71 month is a decline from week ending 9th January, 2015 where it rose to $338.09 translating to 1.77 months an increase from 2nd January, 2015 at $314.49 translating to 1.65 months import cover. 

Private Sector Foreign Exchange Reserve from 2 Jan - 13th Jan 2015 (by RBM)

Compare between 19th to 30th December 2014 Statistics

Private Sector Foreign Exchange Reserve from 19th Dec - 29th Dec 2014 (by RBM)

But as of Wednesday Kwacha has continued to appreciate against the USD trading at around MK462.5711 on Wednesday from around 466.5601 on Tuesday.

Exchange Rate Development from 6th Jan- 13th Jan 2015 (by RBM)

Compare between 19th to 30th December 2014 Statistics

Exchange Rate Development from 18th Dec- 29th Dec 2014 (by RBM)

RBM statistics indicates Private Sector Foreign Exchange Reserves (Foreign reserves under the direct control of authrozed dealer banks (ADBs) which consists of ADBs own forex positions and foreign currency denominated accounts balances of their clients) ADBs sales to the market at US$48.88 million surpassed corresponding purchases by US$7.55 million during the week ending 9th January 2015. ADBs bought US$6.27 million from the market against sales of US$5.54 million Tuesday.

“It is worth pointing out that this has never happened before in Malawi’s history. It is the first time for the country to hit such levels of reserves and import cover even at the highest periods of good economic growth.” Said Nankhumwa

The Minister has assured Malawians that government will continue on the path withstanding all the challenges to make Malawi a middle income country.

“In the same vein, government wishes to appeal to every one of us to use these foreign reserves prudently, focusing only on those activities that will help grow the reserves, while we all rally behind the leadership of His Excellency the State President Professor Peter Mutharika to push further the agenda of shifting the direction of the country into better days.” He said

13th January Anti-NacGate Demonstrations No Link with Global Fund Mission

13^th January Anti-NacGate Demonstrations No Link with Global Fund Mission

Government says no link between the upcoming Global Fund Mission between January 13 and 20, 2015 and the January 13, 2015 demonstrations by Anti-NAC Gate Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).

Nankhumwa: No link

Currently there are reports that Global Fund has suspended its aid to Malawi following information that National Aids Commission (NAC) without proper procedures funded first lady’s Beautify Malawi Trust (BEAM) and Mulhakho Wa Alhomwe institutions not directly linked to HIV/AIDS response. And now CSOs are holding demonstrations on same dates demanding the two institutions to refund the money.

In a statement Kondwani Nankhumwa Minister of Information, Tourism and Culture assured that there is ABSOLUTELY no connection between the two events as the purpose of the Global Fund Mission is to provide feedback and discuss the latest draft TB/HIV and Malaria concept notes and implementation arrangements.

“One of the critical aspects of the process is engagement of relevant stakeholders. This forms part of the assessment of the eligibility of any country’s concept notes. The Civil Society is particularly given prominence in as far as stakeholder involvement in the process is concerned.” Explained the minister

Ant NAC Gate CSOs: Demanding Mulhakho and BEAM to refund
the funds to NAC

He said the mission is routine and the last Global Fund Mission happened three months ago in September 2014 and this Mission too had engagements with CSO representatives as part of both TB/HIV and Malaria concept notes writing teams.

However, in the statement Government says does not completely rule out discussion on the recent developments during the Global Fund’s meeting with the CSOs as members of the Mission may still want to hear their side of the story.

The Minister also confirmed government position on this mission by quoting an email message from the Executive Secretary of the Malawi Global Fund Coordinating Committee to all stakeholders informing them about the Mission.

In the latter to all stakeholders Executive Secretary for Malawi Global Fund Coordinating Committee Secretariat, Victor Chayamba informed all stakeholders about the Mission exactly as government statement is indicating.

Reads the letter

Dear all,

I would like to report that there will be a Global Fund Country Team mission to Malawi from 13 to 20 January 2015. The aim of the mission is to discuss the latest drafts of the joint TB/HIV and malaria concept notes and implementation arrangements. This is in alignment with the change in the New Funding Model where the Global Fund plays an active role in concept note preparation. The delegation will include disease advisors for Tuberculosis and HIV and an HSS expert. Find attached the schedule of meetings for your preparation. Note that this will note derail our road map for finalizing the concept notes. You are kindly requested to plan to be available for these important meetings.

Warm regards,

Victor Chayamba,

Executive Secretary,

Malawi Global Fund Coordinating Committee Secretariat.

Government Commends Media For Being Professional In the Year 2014…

Promises Better Environment in 2015

Nankhumwa: Media did the nation proud in 2014

Government says in 2014 media did the nation proud through courageous and professional reporting of numerous issues a spirit which must be continued so that people benefit in their day to day lives through such noble service.

In a special New Year message to the media from Minister of Information Tourism and Culture hon. Kondwani Nankhumwa said during this period the media “did the nation proud and were the envy of the world” when it reported courageously and professionally during Malawi’s first ever Tripartite General Elections in May 2014 and also when it courageously helped to expose Cashgate (the systematic syphoning of money from Capital Hill).

Cabinet Ministers Defer Their Salary Increment Joins President Mutharika and Vice President Chilima

Cabinet Ministers Defer Their Salary Increment Joins President Mutharika and Vice President Chilima

Ministers and Deputy Misters have deferred their recent revealed salary increment until the economy is normalized but are firm that they will not demand their arrears.

Minister of Finance Economic Planning and Development Honorable Goodall Gondwe announced the development on Thursday evening in Lilongwe and said the cabinet minister’s decision was consensus.

“Following the decision by the President and the Vice President to forgo their salary increment, the Ministers and Deputy Ministers also have met and decided that they too in solidarity with the President and Vice President will not receive salary increment provided to them until the economy is normalized.” Announced Gondwe who was accompanied by Minister if Information Tourism and Culture honorable Kondwani Nankhumwa

He assured that when the economy is normalized Cabinet Ministers will not ask to have back their arrears but the envisaged salary increment will only be applicable to them when it is felt that the economy has been normalized.

Cabinet Minister decision will encourage 
Malawians that their leaders are geared 
to get economy going

Godwe said from this consensus government will save for the next duration of this financial year which began in October this year a figure “inside” K100 Million.

Though he said these savings have no power to impact on the economy but the President and his deputy together with cabinet minister decision will encourage Malawians that their leaders are geared to get economy going.

He also dispelled allegations that Ministers had received part of their salary increment from first of October as was supposed to be. He said Ministers did not get any salary increment due to administrative issue and nothing else.

The Ministers decision to defer their salary increment comes amid criticism from various organizations including Leader of Opposition and Malawi Congress Party President Honorable Dr. Lazarus Chakwera for Muthrikas decision to approve salary which he previously denied to do so on basis that the Malawi economy cannot not support it, however this time the President and his Vice have opted to suspend theirs, because again, the economy cannot support it.

It was revealed few days ago that Members of Parliament, Opposition together with Ministers and President and his deputy have 376%, 168% and 80% salary increment respectively however Minister of Finance recently clarified that this salary increment was part of salary harmonization and that current figures are mainly a reflection of amalgamated basic wage (which was very little) with some of their allowances and therefore current percentages are misleading Malawians.

Goodall Gondwe this Thursday also explained that there is no provision that salary scales should be approved by parliament as stated by Leader of the Opposition recently.

 “The only thing that the parliament does is that, inform of budget approval they approve total wage Bill for everybody that receives the salaries and wages through the budget and number 1 account what is also called consolidated account. But after that various scales that are applicable are not for the parliament to approve so the leader of opposition does not know about this but he ought to know because he must have attended the parliamentary commission.”

“The Leader of Opposition was not factual to say that the matter should have gone to parliament because that is not the rule.” Said Gondwe while maintaining his point and indicate that it is only President who has final authority of approving the salary.

Mw Govt Hits Back at Chakwera Sentiments

Mw Govt Hits Back at Chakwera Sentiments

Kondwani Nankhumwa

The Malawi Government has hit back at several sentiments that Leader of Opposition and President for Malawi Congress Party MCP made on Monday during a press briefing at its party head quarters in Lilongwe.

During the conference Chakwera said Mutharika government has failed in almost everything due to deepening sorry state of affairs of Malawi “The dark shadow of protests now hangs over the education system, the justice system, and the legislative system, and if the President is not careful, his tenure in office may be reduced to a presidency of protests.”

“Instead of solving the salary problems of teachers, civil servants, and judiciary staff within the rule of law, the President’s government chooses to distract Malawians with the revelation that effective from October 1, salaries for MPs, Ministers, Leader of Opposition, Vice President, and the President himself were increased by 376%, 168%, and 80% respectively” aid Chakwera

He denied that the increment was debated or approved in parliament but was convinced that the decision was between the President and his Finance Minister Goodall Gondwe.

Chakwera asked Mutharika to reverse decision of suspending his salary hike waiting for economy to respond because it is just creation of a perception that he is not greedy when he is just postponing the time of payment. And instead Chakwera asks Mutharika to uphold the decision he made in August not to approve salary increments.

Chakwera said government has failed 

 “I will never tire and I will never relent from speaking the truth. And here is the truth: 7 months ago, we had a childish government; Now we have an unethical government. After all, if the President rejected something as unethical in August, then approved it in September, then pretended to suspend his own decision in December, then he is a hypocrite whose government is run by distractions and deceptions, not leadership.” Said Chakwera who also asked Mutharika to resignation of if he finds it hard to end numerous challenges that Malawians are experiencing

Government statement signed by Hon Kondwani Nakhumwa Minister of Information Tourism and Culture faults Chakwera on every point “Like a Pharisee of now, Hon. Reverend Chakwera, would obviously have loved to see - as we have been instructed by his manner of effort, tone and mood - President Mutharika and his administration wear sack cloths and flagellate themselves to demonstrate that they care.”

“There will be no empty theatrical gestures or actions or pronouncements, no prancing on the stage and no flagellation, but we will simply continue to act against the suffering of our people, as decisively as we have sought and resolved to, without being seduced to do otherwise by holier than thou sentiments of those that are obsessed with the desperation of seeking cheap political capital from the sanctuaries where the untried and the untested hide, who because they are in the safety of not being in office, and who by possessing the advantage of not being on the stage of public scrutiny, pretend to be present day Messiahs with all the answers.”

The statement says Government is solving economic woes inherited six months ago among them is undertaking Public Service Reforms.

On recent announced salaries government wondered as to why MCP has taken conflicting positions because MCP spokesperson Hon Dr. Jessie Kabwila celebrated the news “and went the whole hog of justifying the salary review.”

His party not speaking with one voice

 “All the increments are according to the budget” reads the statement and asked the Opposition Leader to regularly consult with experienced MPs from his party, to help him understand how to read budget documents because he approved same figures he is attacking when he voted for the budget on the floor of the House.

“Government will not accept that the leader of the opposition should blame his ignorance on parliamentary matters on the President.” Reads the statement adding “It is nonsensical for the leader of the opposition to claim that the increments were deliberately leaked to divert people’s attention from the challenges that the country is facing because these are not new”

But the statement challenge Hon. Chakwera to use his position to respond to the President with a cross-party approach which creates a new spirit of national unity in dealing with these challenges “Let us consider the need to join hands to provide our contribution in our respective roles by placing the interest of the country above that of our own parties or politics in general.”

The statement says failure to adopt a common vocabulary will consequently be difficult to enter into the national partnership that Malawi need.

9 Mw Police Officers Die in Car Accident

9 Mw Police Officers Die in Car Accident

A tragic accident has claimed 9 lives of police officers in Balaka district at Chiyendausiku 2.

The fatal road accident involving Malawi Police Service Officers happened on 6th December 2014 at Chiyendausiku 2 in Balaka District, involving motor vehicle registration MP 2252 Toyota Land cruiser where nine (9) officers died in the course of duty.

The police officers were part of the convoy of President Mutharika who in the day inaugurated Traditional Authority Kapoloma in Machinga district.

The nine officers have been identified as;

1. Senior Superintendent Kasowanjete

2. Inspector Namizinga

3. Sub-Inspector Mhango

4. Driver Sergeant Gondwe

5. Sergeant Njikho

6. Sergeant Mulenga

7. Constable Chimenya

8. Constable Sekelani Chilenje and

9. Constable Triza Mphande

Meanwhile President and Government have extended deepest condolences to the families of the victims of this fatal accident, the Inspector General of the Malawi Police Service, all Police Officers and Civilian Staff and the nation.

In a press statement, Kondwani Nankhumwa, M.P.  Minister of Information, Tourism and Culture says “Government pledges its support in this trying time to the bereaved families.”