The Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops has identified corruption, high living costs, and ethnic fragmentation as significant challenges obstructing the nation’s progress. They warn against blind political loyalty among youth and the harmful effects of dependency on handouts, urging for urgent reforms to foster unity and improve living standards.
In a recent statement published by Luntha Television on March 9, 2025, the members of the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB) highlighted key challenges facing the nation, including widespread corruption, rising living costs, and social fragmentation. They describe these issues as the “largest and perennial stones” that hinder Malawi’s potential for renewal, confining the country in a “tomb of dehumanizing poverty and suffering.”
The MCCB criticized the pervasive corruption, particularly among politicians and civil servants, asserting that it devastates society. They observed that while politicians rapidly accumulate wealth after assuming office, long-serving civil servants struggle to maintain modest living conditions. Their statement questions how political leaders can become wealthy overnight following their election.
Addressing the soaring prices of essential goods, the bishops referred to the high cost of living as a ubiquitous challenge for households across Malawi. They noted that vendors face difficulties selling their products due to increased prices, which severely impacts boarding secondary schools as well.
The bishops also condemned negative ethnicity evidenced by exclusive relationships that threaten national unity. They warned that this fragmentation along regional, tribal, and political lines poses a grave danger and calls for urgent action to address tribalism, emphasizing that such divisive practices not only undermine civic unity but also contradict Christian teachings.
As Malawi approaches general elections on September 16, the bishops urged youth not to follow politicians blindly. Many young citizens have expressed readiness to fight for political leaders who have failed to ensure a dignified life for their constituents, indicating that politicians often exploit the youth with bribes or meager handouts.
Furthermore, the bishops criticized the culture of dependency on handouts, confessing that the church’s own efforts through development initiatives may have contributed to this issue. They underscored that while acts of charity such as distributing relief items are well-intentioned, they risk fostering a spirit of long-term dependency among beneficiaries.
In conclusion, the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops has addressed critical issues such as corruption, rising living costs, and the negative impacts of ethnic fragmentation on national unity. They admonished citizens, especially the youth, against blind loyalty to corrupt political leaders and discouraged dependence on handouts. The bishops advocate for urgent action to foster social cohesion and elevate living standards across the nation, emphasizing the need for moral integrity in governance and development.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
