By Burnett Munthali
In a move aimed at bringing governance closer to the people, Parliament is today holding a special sitting at Dedza Stadium in Dedza District as part of its Parliament Week activities. This initiative seeks to enhance public awareness of the functions and operations of Parliament while fostering greater engagement between citizens and their elected representatives.
Parliament Week, an annual event, provides an opportunity for Malawians to interact with Members of Parliament (MPs) and learn more about the legislative process. This year’s theme emphasizes the importance of transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in parliamentary activities.
Speaking ahead of the event, Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara highlighted the significance of hosting the session outside the traditional parliamentary chambers in Lilongwe. “By coming to Dedza, we are demonstrating our commitment to ensuring that Parliament is accessible to all Malawians, regardless of their location. This is a chance for citizens to witness firsthand how decisions affecting their lives are made,” she said.
The day’s program includes a formal parliamentary sitting, discussions on key legislative issues, and interactive sessions where members of the public can ask questions and voice their concerns. This unique engagement is expected to boost public confidence in the legislative process and enhance citizen participation in governance.
Local leaders and residents of Dedza have welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that it will bring attention to issues affecting their communities. “This is a rare opportunity for us to interact with our MPs and present the challenges we face in Dedza. We are grateful to Parliament for coming to our district,” said one resident.
Parliament Week continues to be a vital platform for bridging the gap between lawmakers and the public. As activities unfold at Dedza Stadium, it is anticipated that this year’s event will leave a lasting impact, reinforcing the role of Parliament as a servant of the people.
