FAITH LEADERS' REMARKS SPARK CONTROVERSY IN MALAWIA

By Michael Martin//MALAWI

The Christmas season in Malawi has been marred by controversy following remarks made by Archbishop Thomas Msusa of the Blantyre Archdiocese of the Catholic Church.

During a Christmas Mass in Blantyre, Msusa expressed dissatisfaction with the findings of an investigation into the plane crash that killed Vice President Saulosi Chilima and eight others.

The investigation, instituted by President Lazarus Chakwera in October, concluded that the crash was caused by bad weather and human error, ruling out any foul play.

However, Msusa described the report as “lacking,” saying he was not satisfied with its findings.

Citizens have taken to social media to express their reactions to Msusa’s remarks.

Some have praised the Archbishop for speaking his mind, while others have criticized him for undermining the investigation’s findings.

Experts have also weighed in on the controversy. Latimu Matenje, a good governance expert noted that Msusa’s remarks could be seen as an attempt to politicize the investigation’s findings.

“While it’s understandable that the Archbishop may have concerns about the report, his remarks could be perceived as an attempt to undermine the investigation’s credibility,” Matenje said.

George Thindwa, a political analyst emphasized the importance of respecting the investigation’s findings.

“It’s crucial that we respect the investigative process and allow the relevant authorities to take action based on the report’s findings,” Thindwa said.

Wonderful Mkhutche, a local commentator, praised Msusa for his contribution to promoting peaceful coexistence in Malawi.

“While we may disagree with the Archbishop’s remarks, we must acknowledge his efforts to promote peace and reconciliation in our country,” Mkhutche said.

The Concerned Faith Leaders group has also responded to Msusa’s remarks, with their representative, Dr.

Hope Nkhoma, stating that the Archbishop’s comments undermine peace and reconciliation in the country.

“While we commend the Archbishop for his contributions to promoting peaceful coexistence, his remarks fall short of the values he stands for,” Nkhoma said.

Meanwhile, Moses Kunkuyu, a government spokesperson, has yet to comment on the controversy.

The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiative (CDED) has also called for calm and respect for the investigative process.

Its Executive Director, Silvester Namiwa said as the controversy continues to unfold, Malawians are left wondering about the implications of Msusa’s remarks on the country’s peace and reconciliation process.

One thing is certain, however: the debate sparked by the Archbishop’s comments will continue to dominate the national discourse in the coming days