President Lazarus Chakwera has urged Malawians to embrace patriotism and selflessness, drawing inspiration from the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence.
Speaking in Nkhata Bay on Monday during Martyrs’ Day commemorations, Chakwera emphasized that true honor for the fallen heroes goes beyond remembrance it requires continuing their fight for a just and prosperous Malawi.
“The country needs patriotic people who have the welfare of their nation at heart, not sellouts who betray it out of greed,” he said.
Chakwera acknowledged that while March 3 is a somber day, it is also a celebration of the bravery of those who fought for a united and independent Malawi. He warned against politicians who exploit the youth for violence and vandalism instead of guiding them toward national development.
The president also condemned corruption at ADMARC, accusing officials of colluding with vendors to buy maize at low prices and resell it at inflated rates.
Meanwhile, Minister of Local Government, Unity, and Culture announced that the government has allocated K15 million per family as compensation for 61 families who lost loved ones in the 1959 struggle. He confirmed that while families in the northern region had received their payments, those in the central and southern regions would receive theirs on Wednesday and Thursday.
Speaking on behalf of the bereaved families, James Thawi expressed gratitude to the government for the compensation and commended Chakwera for consistently attending the annual commemorations.
In his sermon, Reverend Maxwell Mezuwa Banda of the CCAP Livingstonia Synod called for national unity, urging Malawians to love one another beyond tribal, political, or religious differences.
Chakwera, alongside First Lady Monica Chakwera, laid wreaths at Kakumbi Cemetery, where some martyrs are buried. Other officials, including Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara, Chief Justice Rezine Mzikamanda, Malawi Defence Force Commander Paul Valentino Phiri, and Inspector General of Police Merlyne Yolamu, also paid their respects.
This year’s Martyrs’ Day was commemorated under the theme: “The Martyrs: A Great Model of Patriotism.”
