The Catholic Bishops of Malawi have identified corruption, high costs of living, and social fragmentation as significant impediments to the country’s resurrection from poverty. They warn against the divisiveness of negative ethnicity and urge youth to be critical of political allegiances ahead of the general elections. They also emphasize the importance of moving away from reliance on handouts toward self-sustainability.
The Catholic Bishops of Malawi have articulated serious concerns regarding the challenges facing the nation, emphasizing issues of corruption, escalating living costs, reliance on handouts, and divisive affiliations based on region, ethnicity, religion, and politics. These problems have been coined “the largest and perennial stones” obstructing the country’s path to recovery and dignity, according to a recent statement by the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB).
The bishops expressed strong disapproval of the rampant corruption that has infiltrated all sectors of society, particularly highlighting the detrimental actions of politicians and civil servants who perpetuate these unethical practices. They raised concerns about the alarming disparity between the immediate wealth accumulation of political leaders and the ongoing struggles of civil servants to maintain basic living standards. The bishops questioned, “How else do these political leaders amass such huge wealth overnight?”
Furthermore, the bishops lamented the high cost of living, which they described as a “household song everywhere in the country.” The rising prices significantly affect vendors and the operations of boarding secondary schools, revealing the plight of Malawians seeking to provide for their families amid economic challenges.
The MCCB also condemned the growing issue of negative ethnicity that fuels division among communities. They warned that this fragmentation undermines national unity and poses a threat to both society and the Church, emphasizing the need for urgent action against tribalism to align with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
As Malawi approaches its general elections scheduled for September 16, the bishops advised the youth against following political leaders blindly. They cautioned that many young individuals sacrifice their well-being for politicians who fail to improve their living conditions, stating, “Many citizens, especially the youth, are prepared to lay down their lives… in support of their political leaders.”
Additionally, the bishops criticized the practice of bribery used by politicians to manipulate the youth through paltry incentives, and they condemned the ongoing dependence on handouts. They acknowledged the potential harm caused by creating a culture of reliance, emphasizing a need for more sustainable and dignified forms of support that do not foster dependence among beneficiaries.
In summary, the Catholic Bishops of Malawi have pinpointed several critical obstacles to the nation’s advancement, including corruption, high living costs, and societal fragmentation along tribal and political lines. They have called for decisive action to address these challenges and have urged the youth to be discerning in their political affiliations as the country moves towards elections. The bishops’ statements highlight the need for unity, responsibility, and the importance of supporting initiatives that promote dignity and self-sufficiency within the community.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
