Mangochi muslims protest Chakwera’s stance on Gaza conflict
Ahmad (r) presenting the petition to acting DC
The Mangochi Muslim Concerned Citizens have expressed disappointment and concern over President Lazarus Chakwera’s decision to support Israel in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in the Middle East.
Their concerns were voiced during peaceful demonstrations held in Mangochi District on today.
Speaking during the event, the group’s Vice Secretary, Assad Ahmad, described the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as catastrophic, with thousands of lives lost, mostly civilians, and widespread destruction.
“We can stay quiet when children are sleeping, but not when they are dying,” Ahmad declared.
He criticized President Chakwera for failing to uphold values of compassion, forgiveness, and peace.
Ahmad also wondered whether the President or the Malawi government had received any benefits from Israel in exchange for supporting the conflict.
He said, “We must understand the importance of motivations for this decision, especially considering the president’s background as a pastor”.
He challenged the rationale behind condoning violence rather than advocating for a peaceful resolution.
“We cannot comprehend why our president chooses to condone such violence and genocide over peaceful resolution,” he said
In his remarks, the acting District Commissioner for Mangochi, Bisai Mtayamanja, assured the demonstrators that their petition would be delivered to the Office of the President and Cabinet.
He also commended the group for conducting their demonstrations peacefully.
President Chakwera’s decision to vote against a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict was made during the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), held from September 22–27, 2024, at the UN Headquarters in New York.
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