By Yamikani Yapuwa
The Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) has called upon district councils to integrate a human rights based approach in service delivery to ensure inclusivity and protect citizens’ rights.
Speaking during a stakeholder workshop held at Thyolo District Council on Wednesday, MHRC Commissioner Andrew Kavala said councils play a crucial role in serving a diverse population.
“The Commission understands the human rights challenges that arise when people seek services at councils. It is, therefore, essential for officers to promote and protect basic human rights to ensure that no individual or group is left behind,” said Kavala.
He stressed that service provision must uphold human rights principles to prevent rights violations in the course of duty.
Kavala noted that council officers themselves should not have their rights violated by those they serve.
“Our aim is to ensure that human rights are embedded in service delivery, and our approach does not sideline these fundamental principles,” he said.
District Commissioner for Thyolo, Hudson Kuphanga, welcomed the engagement citing numerous human rights concerns in the district, including displacement due to land disputes, labor rights violations in tea estates, child labor and child exploitation.
“We have many human rights issues that require serious attention. I am optimistic that this collaboration between the Commission and the council will help provide guidance and solutions,” said Kuphanga.
He said the council would use knowledge gained to better navigate human rights challenges in the district.
