By Jones Gadama
Member of Parliament for Mulanje South East, Naomi Kilekwa Phiri, has issued a stern warning to her competitors to refrain from defaming her during political campaigns, cautioning that she will not hesitate to take legal action if necessary. This warning comes amid allegations that she uses a fake certificate, which she vehemently denies.
In a face-to-face interview with this investigative reporter, Hon. Kilekwa Phiri set the record straight, explaining that she uses her own certificates and is an MP who values education and educational hard work. “I wouldn’t stoop so low to use someone’s certificate,” she said emphatically.
The controversy surrounding her appears to stem from the use of the name Naomi, when her given name is Martha Maleso.
However, Hon. Kilekwa Phiri clarified that she changed her name in standard 8 at Chimwaza full Primary School where she wrote her PSLCE exams.
Hon Kilekwa later enrolled at Chisomo Private School in Lilongwe, where she obtained her Malawi School Certificate of Education.
This investigative reporter verified the authenticity of her certificates.
Hon. Kilekwa Phiri’s journey to becoming a Member of Parliament has not been without its challenges.
She humbly shared her story, revealing that she once worked as a security guard at G4S but never lost sight of her educational goals. “I went through a bumpy road, but education was my goal,” she said.
Despite facing numerous obstacles, Hon. Kilekwa Phiri has demonstrated remarkable determination and perseverance.
She is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Public Relations at the Malawi College of Accountancy’s Blantyre campus and is in her final year. “My competitors who have failed to defeat me since 2014 have finally resorted to defamation,” she said, adding that, “I warn them to stop, lest I drag them to court.”
This investigative reporter was impressed by Hon. Kilekwa Phiri’s hardworking spirit and dedication to personal growth. She also disclosed that she started studying banking at the defunct Blantyre Business College – Lilongwe campus but could not write exams due to fees. In 2019, she managed to obtain a certificate in banking.
Given her track record of resilience and achievement, Hon. Kilekwa Phiri’s competitors would do well to focus on substantive issues rather than resorting to defamation. As a seasoned politician, Hon. Kilekwa Phiri is well aware of the tactics employed by her opponents.
Her warning to them serves as a testament to her confidence in her abilities and her determination to protect her reputation.
Hon. Naomi Kilekwa Phiri’s story is one of hope and determination, showcasing her unwavering commitment to education and public service. Her achievements serve as a testament to her hard work and perseverance, and her warning to her competitors underscores her resolve to protect her reputation and continue serving the people of Mulanje South East with integrity and dedication.
