Chakwera Calls for Patriotism, Condemns Corruption on Martyrs’ Day
President Lazarus Chakwera has urged Malawians to uphold patriotism and selflessness, drawing inspiration from the country’s martyrs who sacrificed their lives for independence.
Speaking in Nkhata Bay on Monday during Martyrs’ Day commemorations, Chakwera emphasized that honoring the fallen heroes goes beyond remembrance—it requires living by the principles they fought for and working toward a better Malawi.
“The country needs patriotic citizens who put national interests first, not individuals who betray it for personal gain,” he said.
He condemned politicians who incite youth violence instead of engaging them in nation-building and criticized ADMARC officials for allegedly colluding with vendors to exploit maize prices, calling it an act of betrayal against struggling Malawians.
Government, through Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda, announced K15 million in compensation for each of the 61 families of those who died in the 1959 struggle for independence. Families in the northern region have received their compensation, while those in central and southern regions will be paid this week.
Reverend Maxwell Mezuwa Banda of the CCAP Livingstonia Synod called for national unity, urging Malawians to embrace the love and sacrifice demonstrated by the martyrs.
President Chakwera, alongside First Lady Monica Chakwera, led wreath-laying at Kakumbi Cemetery, joined by Speaker of Parliament Catherine Gotani Hara, Chief Justice Rezine Mzikamanda, MDF Commander Paul Valentino Phiri, and Inspector General of Police Merlyne Yolamu.
The event, themed “The Martyrs: A Great Model of Patriotism,” served as a call for renewed national commitment to unity, selflessness, and integrity.
