By Burnett Munthali
The open letter by Mami Wa Shabe addressed to Mzuzu University students has sparked significant debate, primarily due to its strong condemnation of certain students’ actions, which are perceived as disrespectful to religious values. The letter not only calls for disciplinary action but also invokes a curse upon the students, raising ethical and moral concerns about the appropriateness of such pronouncements.
At the heart of the letter is the outrage over alleged misconduct by Mzuzu University students, who are accused of dressing and behaving in a way that disrespects the Catholic faith. This has led to disappointment and anger among those who hold religious values in high regard. However, while the call for disciplinary measures may be justifiable within the university’s regulations, the tone of the letter—especially the invocation of curses—raises questions about how society should address moral transgressions, particularly within an academic institution.
Mami Wa Shabe’s letter reflects the sentiments of many Malawians who feel that religious institutions deserve utmost respect, and any perceived mockery or disregard for religious customs is unacceptable. The letter suggests that the students’ attire and behavior misrepresented Catholicism and portrayed a negative image of their faith, leading to frustration among religious followers.
In Malawi, where religion plays a crucial role in shaping moral and social values, actions that seem to mock or undermine religious beliefs can trigger strong reactions. This explains why the author demands swift action from Mzuzu University’s management and religious authorities to address the matter within two weeks.
However, freedom of expression and individual choice in a secular institution like Mzuzu University also need to be considered. While religious sensitivity is important, the extent to which university students should conform to religious expectations remains debatable. Should universities enforce religious discipline, or should students be allowed to express themselves freely as long as they do not break institutional rules?
Beyond calling for disciplinary action, the letter takes an extreme stance by cursing the students, predicting that they will struggle in life, fail to secure employment, and experience hardships. The author goes as far as to state that their educational qualifications will be worthless, and their children will not benefit from their efforts.
This raises serious ethical concerns:
Firstly, it is questionable whether a moral or religious error should result in a lifetime of misfortune. People, especially students, learn from their mistakes, and extreme punishment may not always be the best way to correct behavior.
Secondly, invoking curses can have psychological and emotional effects on the students, especially in a society where belief in spiritual consequences is strong. Instead of guiding the youth toward correction, such pronouncements may instill fear, depression, or self-doubt in students who are still shaping their futures.
Thirdly, every society, especially one built on religious values, should uphold forgiveness, guidance, and mentorship rather than eternal condemnation. If the students’ actions were inappropriate, constructive disciplinary action and education would be more effective than declaring a curse upon their lives.
The controversy surrounding this letter is part of a larger conversation on morality, religious respect, and freedom of expression in Malawi. It raises critical questions such as:
To what extent should universities enforce religious discipline?
How should society correct youthful mistakes without permanently damaging young people’s futures?
Is it ethical or fair to curse individuals rather than educate and reform them?
While maintaining cultural and religious values is essential, society must also recognize the role of personal freedoms and institutional boundaries. Mzuzu University, like any academic institution, has rules and policies that students must follow, but disciplinary actions should align with legal and ethical standards rather than personal emotions.
Mami Wa Shabe’s letter expresses the deep frustration of religious followers, but its approach raises serious ethical concerns. While it is valid to call for discipline and respect for religious institutions, the invocation of a curse and lifelong misfortune is extreme and counterproductive.
A more constructive approach would be open dialogue between students, university management, and religious leaders to educate, correct, and guide young people toward moral responsibility without resorting to extreme punishments. Society must find a balance between preserving religious respect and allowing academic spaces to function as platforms for learning, growth, and transformation.
