In the aftermath of the tragic aviation accident that claimed the lives of Malawi’s former Vice President and eight others, President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera emphasized the imperative for national unity as a means to facilitate collective healing.
Speaking on Saturday at the National Service of Worship commemorating Malawi’s 60th Independence Anniversary at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, President Chakwera addressed the nation with a reiterated call for solidarity.
President Chakwera acknowledged the sorrowful circumstances necessitating the cancellation of the grand Independence Celebrations originally slated for the Bingu National Stadium.
Reflecting on the late Saulos Chilima, the Malawi leader urged citizens to embody the spirit of the late Vice President , whose vision for a prosperous Malawi remains a beacon of inspiration.
Highlighting the role of law enforcement during this sensitive period, President Chakwera called upon the Malawi Police Service, through the Inspector General’s office, to execute their duties with utmost professionalism and compassion, transforming the police into a service rather than a force.
Minister of Defence Harry Mkandawire, who chaired the Ministerial Committee for the 60th Anniversary Commemoration, expressed deep appreciation for the efforts of those who organized this year’s National Day of Worship, underscoring the resilience and fortitude of the Malawian people.
Reverend Vasco Kachipapa of Mvama CCAP in Lilongwe who preached at the event remarked on the powerful display of unity among Malawians during the prayers, illustrating the strength found in togetherness during adversity.
Throughout the service, religious leaders offered prayers for the nation’s well-being and progress. Right Reverend Peter Musikuwa, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Chikwawa, led prayers for national unity, resilience, and coexistence.
Pastor Tonny Nyirenda, President of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Malawi, prayed for national healing, comfort, and against suicide.
Bishop Mary Nkosi of Living Waters Church led a prayer for national leadership and governance, while Bishop Dr. Andrew Dube, President of Malawi Assemblies of God, offered prayers for patriotism.
Reverend Reuben Msowoya, Moderator of the CCAP Synod of Livingstonia, prayed for economic growth and development.
The Islamic exhortation was delivered by Amir Sheikh Jaffar Kawinga, Interim Vice Chairperson of the Quadria Muslim Association of Malawi, followed by an Islamic supplication by Sheikh Omar Nkachelenga, an executive member of the association.
The offerings collected during the National Service of Worship, in honor of Malawi’s 60th Independence anniversary, will be donated to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMa) to support humanitarian efforts.
