MALAWI: Catholics Urged to Promote Peace Ahead of General Elections
Diocesan Administrator for Dedza Diocese Very Rev. Fr John Chithonje has deplored political intolerance and appealed to the Catholic faithful to live in harmony with members of other denominations and religions ahead of Malawi’s tripartite elections in May this year.
He brought forward this appeal on Saturday 2nd February at Dedza Parish on the occasion of the day of Consecrated Life where Catholics across the world commemorate their calling to Religious life. The day is specifically dedicated to Catholic Brothers, Sisters and Religious priests to renew their vigour in God’s service.
Very Rev. Chithonje’s remarks come hot on the heels of escalating political violence in Malawi ahead of the polls, a development which has worried various stakeholders. In the month of January alone, legislator for Mulanje East Constituency Bon Kalindo of the newly registered opposition UTM Party was beaten up by people suspected to be supporters of another political party in his own home district; a female UTM member, Veronica Katunga, was undressed and harassed by some people also suspected to be members of another political party; and a main opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP) supporter was also beaten in Blantyre.
Fr. Chithonje said the inevitable different political affiliations within the Catholic community should not give room for politicians to divide the Church and use some of its faithful as tools of violence ahead of the elections.
“We should be good examples to other denominations and religions by denying any negative influences of politicians upon us to achieve their ulterior motives,” he told the congregation.
Very Rev. Chithonje added that it is in times like these that Catholics must demonstrate genuine Catholicism by promoting the Christian values and upholding the doctrines of the faith.
“Catholicism is thicker than politics. We must unite in preaching and witnessing the World of God and emphasize to the people the importance of peaceful coexisting as we approach the general election”.
ECM National Director of PMC
In his remarks, National Director of Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS) in Malawi Fr. Vincent Mwakhwawa commended the gathering, saying it gave an opportunity to men and women serving God in the Church to share notes on how best they can progress with their work.
“There are different groups of service in catholic created to enable the church do God’s work even much better. Over the years, this commemoration has provided a platform to such groups to familiarize with each other’s work in efforts to improve the church’s impact in promoting humanity,” said Fr Mwakhwawa.
The commemoration of the day of Consecrated Life in Dedza Diocese drew together scores of faithful from the diocese’s 16 parishes.
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By: Wanangwa Mtawali
