By Linda Kwanjana
Governance and Human Rights Advocate Undule Mwakasungula says he is surprised with Sylvester Namiwa’s resignation from the Commission of Inquiry on the plane crash.
In a statement released on 1st November, 2024 signed by Mwakasungula, sighted Namiwa’s resignation as lack of commitment as he accepted the position and even took an oath to serve.
“Mr. Namiwa has always been outspoken on important issues, and he advocated strongly for the Commission to be set up in the first place. In fact, he was one of the even loudest voices pushing for the inquiry, even threatening to demonstrate when there were delays in forming,” Mwakasungula said.
He therefore described his decision as inconsistent with his earlier position.
Mwakasungula said Malawians had hope that Namiwa’s participation will add value as he could have contributed to fuller understanding of what happen, as it stands Mwakasungula feels that Namiwa has missed an opportunity to serve Malawians.
“Stepping down at this point also limits Mr. Namiwa’s influence. While he could continue to speak from outside the Commission, his impact might have stronger from within and allowed him to engage fully in the process and contribute to the final findinds,” he added.
He also feels the decision by Namiwa was made in a hurry and emotional without clear reflection on the impact as it may be viewed by some as unpatriotic as he is running from his duty to serve Malawians.
He has since therefore said he hopes Namiwa will still be open to help the Commission as an information source despite his resignation.
He further said the Commission’s work will help to heal and bring unity for the country as the findings and recommendations could bring closure to the victim’s families and to all Malawians.
