By Chisomo Kambandanga
Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango has called on Malawians to uphold justice, unity and patriotism as the country commemorated this year’s Martyrs’ Day.
Mhango, who was delegated by President Arthur Peter Mutharika, made the remarks Tuesday during a service of worship at Chipopoma Ground in the area of Senior Chief Mkumbira in Nkhata Bay District.
Earlier in the morning, the Minister led dignitaries in laying wreaths at the Martyrs Memorial Tower at Kakumbi Cemetery and at Nkhata Bay Jetty in honour of those who lost their lives during the struggle against British colonial rule on March 3, 1959.
Speaking during the service, Mhango urged citizens to safeguard the values for which the fallen heroes fought.
“Let us stand for what is right and guard what is ours,” he said.He stressed the need for Malawians to reflect on the aspirations the martyrs had for the country, saying true freedom goes beyond political independence.
“There can never be true freedom if people do not have access to basic necessities such as water, food and clothing,” he said.
Mhango acknowledged that Malawi faced serious economic challenges during the previous regime, including acute fuel shortages, food insecurity and foreign exchange constraints that affected businesses and livelihoods.
“Corruption was also rampant, but under the Democratic Progressive Party, led by Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika, we are doing all we can to reverse the situation,” he said.
He outlined measures aimed at stabilising the economy, including increasing fuel storage capacity, improving foreign exchange availability, strengthening energy supply and enhancing revenue collection systems.
“The economy will soon be normalised through sound economic policies,” he added.
Mhango described Martyrs’ Day as a wake-up call for Malawians to advance the country in love and unity and urged citizens to set aside political and personal differences in pursuit of national development.
He also conveyed a K5 million condolence package from Mutharika to families of the fallen heroes.
Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Alfred Gangata said the martyrs sacrificed their lives for the freedom Malawians enjoy today, underscoring the importance of annual commemorations.
Member of Parliament for Nkhata Bay Central Symon Vuwa Kaunda commended Mutharika for increasing the Constituency Development Fund to K5 billion, saying it would support projects such as road construction, a stadium, installation of 16 electricity transformers and procurement of ambulances.
Senior Chief Mkumbira urged government to consider pursuing compensation from the British Government for lives lost during colonial rule.
The event, held under the theme “The Martyrs: A Great Model of Patriotism,” was attended by several dignitaries, including former Vice President Khumbo Kachali and other senior government officials.
