The unfolding saga of the late Hope Chisanu epitomizes a classic case of use and abandonment. The late Chisanu, in life a diehard supporter of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), devoted himself entirely to the DPP cause, defending President Peter Mutharika and the party on state-sponsored MBC TV, while simultaneously attacking the opposition.
Now, this loyal DPP advocate has passed away in the United States, and his family is struggling to gather the funds needed to repatriate his body for a dignified burial. Despite the family’s pleas for assistance, DPP members have retreated into their shells, ignoring the Chisanu family’s plight and leaving them to navigate this ordeal alone.
Renowned private journalist Dickson Kashoti, celebrated for his investigative prowess, reported that the family of the late Hope Chisanu urgently brought the matter to the attention of Professor Peter Mutharika, Mrs. Gertrude Mutharika, and the DPP, yet no support has been forthcoming.
“But there is no response. There is no action taken. Professor Mutharika was yesterday heard in the corridors of his residence in Nyambadwe, Blantyre murmuring something like this does not concern the DPP. He dismissed it without shedding tears,” said Kashoti.
He added:
“What Professor Mutharika has forgotten is that the violent and murderous DPP used, misused and abused Mr. Chisanu on many party errands, including insulting President Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera on MBC when the state broadcaster was under the control of the DPP.
“Mr Chisanu lost his integrity and dignity as a journalist because of the DPP. It is sad now to learn that Professor Mutharika used or is it abused him like a used condom and has been discarded, sadly in death away from home when his relations are knocking in all doors seeking help.”
