By Burnett Munthali
During the recent People’s Party (PP) convention, a proverb emerged that resonated deeply with the current political atmosphere: "Munthu osaona sayambana ndi yemwe akumuyendetsa chifukwa sakafika komwe akupita osaonayo, owona uja akabwelera." This translates to "A blind person does not quarrel with the one guiding them because they will not reach their destination without the guide. But if the guide turns back, so does the blind person."
This proverb, while simple on the surface, carries profound implications for Malawi’s political leadership and alliances, particularly as we look back at the country’s journey since the dawn of multiparty democracy in 1994. As we approach 2024, its relevance becomes clearer than ever.
A Reflection on Dependency and Leadership
At the heart of this proverb is the idea of dependency. In Malawi’s political sphere, many leaders have relied on alliances or the strength of other political figures to gain and maintain power. This is the “blind person” of the proverb—leaders or political parties who have not developed their own strong vision and are instead dependent on others to chart their course.
The “guide” represents the more dominant parties or coalitions that these leaders have aligned themselves with. But the proverb serves as a warning: quarreling with your guide, the one providing direction and support, is not just unwise—it is potentially disastrous. Without the guide, the “blind person” has no way of reaching their destination.
This can be seen in how some political figures, propped up by powerful alliances, have turned against their benefactors, perhaps believing they are now strong enough to go it alone. Yet, without that foundational support, they soon find themselves lost, unable to cross the figurative river they once thought they could navigate.
Malawi’s Political History: A Journey Without Vision
The proverb also speaks to a broader issue within Malawi’s political history: the lack of visionary leadership. Since 1994, Malawi has cycled through political leaders who have often failed to create their own clear path. Instead, many have relied on short-term alliances or opportunistic political moves to remain in power. This is the political blindness that the proverb warns against.
Even as we approach 2024, this dynamic continues. Leaders who first rose to prominence in the early years of democracy are still in play, yet many of them seem as lost as ever. They have traveled far—30 years—but without ever truly seeing where they are going. The implication here is that Malawi’s political progress has been hindered by leaders who are not independently strong, capable, or visionary. Like the blind person in the proverb, they rely on others to guide them, but never truly lead the way themselves.
The Danger of Arrogance in Political Alliances
Another lesson from this proverb is the danger of arrogance within political alliances. Some politicians, after being elevated by a coalition or alliance, become overconfident and begin to believe they no longer need the support of others. The proverbial “blind person” who quarrels with their guide represents this arrogance.
In Malawi’s political landscape, we have seen this scenario play out time and again. Leaders who rise to power through alliances suddenly feel they can go their own way, ignoring the very forces that helped them. Inevitably, without the backing of their political partners, they falter and are left in a worse position than before.
This proverb is a reminder to those in power: do not bite the hand that feeds you, especially if you cannot see your own way forward. Political success, especially in Malawi where alliances are often crucial to victory, requires collaboration and a recognition of one’s limitations.
A Call for Independent Vision and Leadership
Ultimately, this proverb serves as a call for Malawi’s political leaders to cultivate independent vision and leadership. It is not enough to be guided by others; true leadership requires the ability to see and navigate the political landscape on one’s own. Malawi needs leaders who are not blind to the challenges ahead and who do not rely solely on alliances to survive.
If we continue with leadership that is dependent on external forces, the country will never truly progress. The “guide” will eventually turn back, and Malawi, like the blind person in the proverb, will be left stranded, unable to move forward.
Conclusion
The proverb from the People’s Party convention offers a sharp critique of Malawi’s political state and serves as a warning to those in power. Leaders who rely too much on others, who fail to develop their own vision, will ultimately be left behind. As Malawi looks toward 2024 and beyond, it is crucial for its political leadership to learn from this wisdom. The country needs leaders who can see clearly, who can guide themselves and the nation forward, rather than being blindly led by others.
