By Twink Jones Gadama
The recent heavy rains in Nkhotakota central ward in Malawi have left many families devastated, as houses, livestock, and fields have been washed away. In the midst of this humanitarian crisis, one local councillor’s response has come under fire, sparking outrage and criticism from social commentators and community members.
Wanangwa Harawa, a councillor for the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP), visited the affected area to assess the damage and provide support to those in need. However, his actions during this visit have raised eyebrows and caused a stir amongst the local population.
Upon arriving at the muddy and waterlogged area, Harawa refused to walk through the mud and asked one of the flood victims to carry him on their back. The victim, a married man with five children who had lost everything in the floods, reluctantly agreed to carry the councillor through the muck and debris.
The image of a politician being carried on the back of a struggling flood victim has been widely shared on social media, with many condemning Harawa’s lack of empathy and compassion towards those who are suffering. Critics have pointed out that this incident is emblematic of a larger issue within the MCP, where the needs and concerns of the people are consistently overlooked in favor of political gain.
The incident has reignited fears among the Malawian population that a potential return to power for the MCP in the upcoming elections could lead to a regression to the dictatorial rule that the party was known for during its previous tenure in office. Many believe that the party’s actions in times of crisis, such as this current flood emergency, are indicative of a larger trend of neglect and indifference towards the plight of ordinary citizens.
In response to the backlash, Harawa has defended his actions, stating that he was simply trying to avoid getting his shoes dirty in the muddy terrain. He has expressed regret for his behavior and apologized to the victim who was forced to carry him, acknowledging that his actions were inappropriate and offensive. However, many remain unconvinced of his sincerity and believe that this incident reflects a deeper problem within the party and its leadership.
The outcry over Harawa’s actions has underscored the importance of empathy and compassion in times of crisis, particularly for those in positions of power and influence. The incident has served as a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play within the political landscape of Malawi, where the actions of elected officials can have far-reaching consequences for the well-being and livelihoods of the population.
Moving forward, many are calling for greater accountability and transparency within the MCP, as well as a renewed commitment to serving the best interests of the Malawian people. The upcoming elections will be a crucial test for the party, as voters will have the opportunity to hold their leaders accountable for their actions and decisions.
In the meantime, the people of Nkhotakota central ward continue to grapple with the aftermath of the devastating floods, rebuilding their lives and communities in the face of immense challenges. As they work to recover and heal from the trauma of the disaster, they are looking to their elected officials for support, understanding, and leadership in their time of need.
The actions of Wanangwa Harawa have left a lasting impact on the community, serving as a reminder of the importance of humility, compassion, and integrity in times of crisis. As the people of Malawi come together to rebuild and recover, they are hoping for a brighter future guided by principles of empathy, solidarity, and justice for all.
