By Linda Kwanjana
Malawi President Dr Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera has described Reverend John Chilembwe as a hero and selfless leader who had passion for the love of this nation.
Speaking at Mbombwe Mission of Providence Industrial Mission, the Malawi leader said his brave acts paved way for emancipation of the natives.
The President said Chilembwe will remain an indelible symbol of national sacrifice and patriotism.
“For yet another year, we gathered at Mbombwe Mission of the Providence Industrial Mission to commemorate the country’s pioneering freedom fighter, Reverend John Chilembwe, whose brave acts paved way for emancipation of natives,” he said.
He said this day remains an indelible symbol of national sacrifice and patriotism.
“May his martyrdom be a mirror from which today’s Malawi should shape its development aspirations,” said the President.
Dr Chakwera said this is the main reason why he has renamed Phalombe District Hospital to John Chilembwe Hospital as a way of fully entrenching his name in the affairs of Malawi for generations to come.
Earlier Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Richard Chimwendo Banda hailed the P.I.M for organising this year’s Chilembwe Day commemoration.
Chimwendo however reminded former Presidents including Peter Mutharika to always patronise Chilembwe Day, not only sending assistance as has been the case.
He further announced that President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has contributed K4 Million kwacha, Vice president Dr Saulos Chilima K3.5 million kwacha, all cabinet ministers K6 million kwacha making a total of about K13 Million as OPC contribution towards the event.
