By Leonard Kavwenje,
As I write this I have just finished reading T.S. Eliot and picture of Mtambo is visiting my meditation again and again.
In life there are some people each one of us looks up to grow and develop in character. One of my powerful sources of inspiration is Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) Vice President responsible for Operations Senior Comrade Timothy Pagonachi Mtambo and indeed a Founder, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Citizens for Transformation (CFT) People Power Movement.
In good times Mtambo celebrates life with everyone, in bad times Mtambo remains a complete man of understanding.
Mtambo was born a great transformative and visionary leader. His character reminds me of the epical apartheid activist, politician and statesman Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela (18 July 1918 – 5 December 2013).
In sour moments, a good leader must be in the forefront of a struggle. In sweet moments, a good leader leader must be at the very back celebrating. You earn respect. Mandela made it. Mtambo made it too.
Today, I write to share one advice Mtambo generously shared with me in private at Latitude 13 Degrees in Lilongwe but forces of meditation forces me to share it in public.
Mtambo advised, _”Young man, if Malawian political landscape is to develop and civilise, as citizens, we must base our politicking games on values and principles of democracy not emotions.”_
My memory is still fresh that on that day I approached him to seek advice on how best young people in Malawi may play politics of modernity.
Today, I communicate the same to my fellow young Malawians, _”As young people, we are the window of hope. Let us shun hatred-based politics (HBP).”_
Hating Mtambo is hating truth. We are not waving but we are drowning…
