LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s civil rights groups Forum for National Development (FND) and Centre for Mindset Change (CMC) have challenged President Lazarus Chakwera’s Tonse Alliance government an Malawi Congress Party (MCP) to focus much on national service delivery than politicking at the expense of locals.

The two groupings has observed that Chakwera and MCP are focusing on party’s supremacy attainment against Malawians expectation of good service delivery.

In a press statement issued on Thursday, April 25, 2024 signed by FND and CMC National Coordinator and Executive Director Fryson Chodzi and Phillip Kamangira respectively hinted that Malawians expects 2020 promises achievement.

“As Malawi stands on the threshold of transformative progress, the Forum for National Development (FND), the Centre for Mindset Change (CMC), and our affiliate civil society organizations in Malawi emphasize the pressing need to redirect our efforts towards national service.

“However, the current fixation of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) on internal politics, particularly preceding its elective conference, poses a grave threat to this collective vision. It is incumbent upon the MCP and the government to heed this urgent call, prioritizing national service above petty politicking, thus fortifying the nation’s journey towards prosperity,” reads the statement in part.

On fiduciary responsibilities and legal imperatives, FND and CMC say, “Embedded within the Malawi Constitution and upheld by various legal mandates lies the solemn duty of elected officials to safeguard the welfare and advancement of the nation. These fiduciary responsibilities transcend partisan agendas, mandating a steadfast commitment to the greater good of Malawi.

“Embracing this duty necessitates unity and a resolute focus on national progress, setting aside internal power struggles for the betterment of all citizens. Thus, economic recovery and attainment of the ECF grant milestones would suffer greatly in the face of the apparent partisan distraction in pursuit of power and supremacy”.

The statement adds, “On harnessing positive gains for national development, in the midst of adversity, Malawi finds itself buoyed by promising economic prospects and burgeoning donor confidence. Yet, to truly capitalize on these favorable conditions, the MCP and the government must redirect their energies towards national service. By harnessing these positive indicators, Malawi can propel itself towards sustainable development, unlocking opportunities for equitable prosperity and social advancement across all sectors of society.

“The recent sentiment by the World Bank about economic rebound should motivate all players to rally behind the President and the Minister of Finance in sustaining the pathways for economic recovery and growth whilst at the same time cushioning poor Malawians from the economic shocks. Increasing the productivity of the private sector, mining, tourism and mega farm agenda are investments in the right direction”.

On the dangers of petty politicking, FND and CMC observes, “Engaging in internal political maneuvering at the detriment of national duty is a severe breach of public confidence and a direct challenge to the hopes and dreams of the Malawian populace. This indulgence not only wastes precious resources but also hampers the progress of socio-economic advancement and breeds discontent among citizens.

“Malawi finds itself at a critical juncture where it cannot afford to be ensnared by the traps of political rivalry. Vital matters such as poverty alleviation, healthcare and education improvements, youth empowerment, and infrastructure expansion demand immediate and undivided attention”.

The statement explains further, on the implications of politicking on national service, “The consequences of prioritizing politicking over national service are dire and far-reaching. Such indulgences sow seeds of division, impede progress, and erode public faith in governance institutions.

“Furthermore, the distraction engendered by internal power struggles detracts from the implementation of vital policies and initiatives aimed at uplifting the lives of Malawians. To allow such distractions to persist is to perilously jeopardize the very foundation of Malawi’s democratic ethos”.

FND and CMC adds, “Exhibit unwavering commitment to national service, embodying selflessness and readiness to sacrifice for the collective welfare. Mobilize the population through focused awareness initiatives, educating citizens on the importance of unity and the dangers of divisive political maneuvers.

“Strengthen the resilience and impartiality of governance institutions, guaranteeing their steadfast dedication to representing the interests of all Malawians. Allocate resources towards programs that empower the youth as catalysts for positive change, fostering within them a deep sense of accountability and investment in the nation’s future”

The statement appeals, “Now, more than ever, the MCP and the government must rise above the quagmire of internal politics, embracing a collective vision of national service and progress.

“By doing so, Malawi can transcend its current challenges, charting a course towards a future defined by prosperity, equity, and unity. Let us seize this pivotal moment to forge a legacy of greatness, ensuring that the aspirations of all Malawians are realized for generations to come”.

The two grouping observations comes amid scarcity of basic needs including sugar, forex while Chakwera and MCP are busy with August conventions for party’s positions