Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Charles Mhango has urged Malawians to recommit themselves to democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law as the country reflects on the legacy of late pro-democracy icon Chakufwa Tom Chihana.
Mhango made the call Sunday evening at Grand Palace Hotel in Mzuzu during an inaugural public lecture in Mzuzu held in remembrance of Chihana.
Mhango said the lecture should not be viewed merely as a historical analysis but as a platform to envision a more inclusive governance system for Malawi’s future. He praised Chihana’s courage in challenging the one-party state in 1992 after the Catholic Bishops’ pastoral letter, noting that Chihana was prepared to sacrifice his life for democracy and human rights.
“The Government of His Excellency Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika is guided by the Fundamental Principles in section 12 of the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi,” Mhango said, stressing that Malawi’s democratic journey is anchored in constitutional values and international commitments.
He highlighted Malawi’s membership in global and regional bodies such as the United Nations, African Union, SADC, and COMESA, as well as its obligations under bilateral and multilateral treaties that safeguard democracy and human rights.
While acknowledging progress since the advent of multiparty democracy, Mhango warned that corruption remains a major obstacle to effective governance. He said corruption undermines trust in public institutions and weakens the rule of law, with perpetrators often escaping punishment.
“The Government is committed to enhancing anti-corruption systems that should detect corruption before it occurs, in particular by strengthening whistle-blower mechanisms,” he added.
The Minister called on Malawians to honour Chihana’s legacy by renewing their commitment to democracy, solidarity, and cooperation.
“As we commemorate this remarkable life of Late Chakufwa Tom Chihana, let us all renew our commitment to democracy, human rights, the rule of law, solidarity, cooperation, and shared responsibility towards a peaceful and prosperous future for all Malawians,” Mhango said.
The lecture drew a distinguished audience including former Vice President Khumbo Hastings Kachali, Mzuzu Mayor Moses Chiyembekezo, Youth and Society Executive Director Charles Kajoloweka, Mzuzu University Vice Chancellor Professor Wells Singini, representatives of the Chihana family, Members of Parliament, officials from the Malawi Human Rights Commission, and keynote speaker Professor Wiseman Chijere Chirwa. Panelists included Owen Mwalubunji, Dr Chrispine Mphande, and Dan Msowoya.
The event marked a solemn yet forward-looking tribute to Chihana, whose defiance against authoritarian rule helped usher in Malawi’s democratic era.
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