By Burnett Munthali
Kamlepo Kalua, the Member of Parliament for Rumphi East, has called on the government to stop transferring civil servants who led peaceful demonstrations demanding salary increments.
He made this appeal during a parliamentary session, addressing the Minister of Local Government, Richard Chimwendo Banda.
Kalua emphasized that these transfers appear to be punitive measures against employees who were simply exercising their constitutional right to demand better wages.
He questioned the government’s intentions, arguing that instead of addressing the grievances raised by these workers, it has chosen to punish them by relocating them to different districts.
The legislator stressed that such actions undermine the democratic principles that Malawi upholds, particularly the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
Kalua further noted that many of the affected workers have families and personal commitments in their current locations, making these abrupt transfers disruptive and unjust.
He urged the government to engage in dialogue with the concerned employees rather than using transfers as a tool of intimidation.
The Rumphi East MP warned that such punitive measures could discourage other civil servants from speaking out on issues affecting them.
He reminded the government that addressing salary concerns is a more sustainable solution than silencing workers through transfers.
Kalua called on Minister Richard Chimwendo Banda to intervene and ensure that these transfers are halted immediately.
He insisted that the government should demonstrate its commitment to fair labor practices by engaging in constructive discussions with the affected employees.
The issue of civil servant remuneration has been a contentious topic in Malawi, with many workers decrying the high cost of living and stagnant wages.
In recent months, various professional groups, including teachers and health workers, have staged peaceful protests to demand salary adjustments.
Kalua’s concerns highlight the growing frustration among government employees who feel that their voices are being ignored.
It remains to be seen whether the government will heed his call and reverse the transfers of the affected workers.
The outcome of this matter will serve as a crucial test of the government’s commitment to labor rights and democratic governance.
