Political activist Bon Kalindo has condemned in strongest terms possible the killing of a police officer in Mangochi-Chiponde saying this is not acceptable in modern democracy and this should be a wake-up call to the authorities to find out the reasons why the citizens are always in anger.
Kalindo said while it is bad for the citizens to take the law on to their hands, government through the police must revisit their relationships with the citizens claiming that some police officers are abusing people through severe beatings and shootings.
He said discipline starts with one self, calling on government to exercise discipline by standing on truth and justice for the people to emulate the same observing that the country’s leaders are liars, this is causing the citizens to be in anger.
Speaking through an audio clip, Kalindo has condemned the force applied in undressing women cladding in MCP zienjes at Pengapenga in Ntcheu district while President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera was travelling from Lilongwe to Mangochi for a Christmas and New Year holiday.
Kalindo
Kalindo has advised all Malawians to enjoy their democratic rights by wearing party cloth of their choice and calling on the MCP to put its house to order and perhaps go back to the drawing board to see where this is originating from.
He said booing of the President wherever he is travelling, castigating and insulting the President, removing banners bearing the picture of President Chakwera saying all these, are signs that God is not happy with the MCP leadership.
The activist has warned government that cooking up figures for the registered voters and Malawians rejecting President Chakwera and his MCP before elections are held in the country, is a recipe for disaster for Mec to declare President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera the winner in the September, 2025 elections.
“Signs are on the wall that Malawians don’t want you in government and you are busy with Mec cooking up figures, this is a recipe for disaster, Malawians won’t accept this,” said Kalindo.
He has also accused the MCP government of abusing pensioners by not giving them their money claiming that some are dying, failing to send their children to school, and buying food for not accessing the money which they worked for it.
Kalindo has finally advised Malawians to celebrate Christmas and New Year festivities with responsibility considering the economic crisis they are in with skyrocketing prices of essential goods on daily basis and hunger in most households.
He has sent his best wishes to the poor people in Malawi urging them to celebrate Christmas and New Year while sailing in a sea of challenges every day giving them hope that God is watching all this, and soon, Malawi will be liberated from the shackles of dictatorship.
President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera says God sent his son Jesus to build a new Kingdom and a new government of justice and righteousness questioning Malawians whether they have accepted Jesus to be the ruler of their lives.
President Chakwera has advised Malawians to take Christmas to show love, justice and righteousness to those around them and surrender their lives to Jesus by asking him to include them in his Kingdom of life and righteousness.
In his Christmas message to Malawians, President Chakwera said surrendering one’s life to Jesus is the best thing that can happen to them saying he surrendered his life to Jesus as the ruler of his life at Mtendere Secondary School in Dedza district.
Chakwera
“I urge you to ask Jesus to be the ruler of your life,” said President Chakwera.
On Christmas Day, 25th December, 2024 as part of showing love, justice and righteousness to those around him, President Chakwera will visit and cheer patients at the Mangochi District Hospital the very same day former President of the Republic Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika was set to do the same.
Writing in a statement signed by the DPPs National Publicity Secretary Shadric Namalomba, District Commissioner for Mangochi refused to grant permission for Professor Mutharika to visit and cheer patients at the hospital after State House saw the announcement on social media and in a surprising move, they announced that President Chakwera is visiting the hospital on Christmas Day.
And the United Transformation Movement (UTM) President Dr. Dalitso Kabambe will on Christmas Day spread his Christmas cheer in the central region of Malawi through charitable visits to Kabudula Rural Hospital in Lilongwe, Mponela and Kasese Rural Hospitals in Dowa district. In a communication from the UTM National Publicity Secretary Felix Njawala, the UTM is encouraging all of its supporters to join this noble and heartfelt initiative saying it is an opportunity to stand together in the spirit of giving and compassion during this festive season.
“Please note that no party logos are permitted inside hospital wards, but you are welcome to wear red attire, party colors may be displayed outside the wards, in accordance with hospital regulations,” reads the UTM communication in part.
Supapesa Limited, a Malawian-owned company, has awarded two lucky winners with prizes totaling K32 million. The winners were announced at a ceremony held in Blantyre on Tuesday.
Commercial Operations Director Josiah Kachali expressed his company’s commitment to contributing to the economic well-being of the community through sports betting.
“We aim to provide user-friendly platforms for sports betting enthusiasts,” he said.
One of the winners, Pharess Justin, was overjoyed to have won K10 million after betting on Lucky Yanga for the first time.
“I didn’t know what I was doing until I received the call that I was a winner,” she said.
Justin plans to use her prize to boost her business capital, pay her children’s school fees, and build a house.
Justin advised fellow sports betters to bet responsibly to avoid addiction. Supapesa Limited also awarded K22 million to a Mzuzu-based player who won a Bet Yanga online product.
The company, which began operations in Malawi in 2018, continues to promote sports betting in the country.
As the year 2024 comes to a close, United Democratic Front (UDF) leader Atupele Muluzi has taken to social media to reflect on the challenges that Malawi has faced. In a Facebook post, Muluzi wished Malawians a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, while also acknowledging the difficulties that the country has encountered in 2024.
According to Muluzi, 2024 has been a tough year for many Malawians, with the country facing numerous challenges, including a struggling economy, rising prices of goods and services, fuel shortages, and a weakening currency.
Despite these challenges, Muluzi urged Malawians to remain hopeful and resilient, and to continue working together to build a better future for themselves and their families.
Atupele Muluzi
Muluzi’s message was one of encouragement and optimism, as he reminded Malawians that despite the difficulties they have faced, they have the power to shape their own destiny and create positive change in their communities. He also emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation, urging Malawians to put aside their differences and work together to address the challenges facing their country.
As Malawi prepares to enter a new year, Muluzi’s message serves as a timely reminder of the importance of perseverance, resilience, and collective action. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, Malawians can take heart from Muluzi’s words and work together to build a brighter future for themselves and their country.
In related news, Muluzi’s UDF party has been actively engaged in various development initiatives across Malawi, aimed at improving the lives of ordinary citizens. The party has also been vocal on various national issues, including the need for economic reform, improved governance, and enhanced transparency and accountability.
As the 2025 elections approach, Muluzi’s UDF party is expected to play a significant role in shaping Malawi’s political landscape.
With his message of hope and unity, Muluzi has demonstrated his commitment to putting the needs of Malawians first and working towards a brighter future for all.
Atupele Muluzi’s reflective message on the challenges facing Malawi in 2024 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, unity, and collective action.
As Malawians look to the future, they can draw inspiration from Muluzi’s words and work together to build a better tomorrow for themselves and their country.
As the chill of December settles in and the world transforms into a winter wonderland, the spirit of Christmas begins to envelop communities across the globe. Streets adorned with twinkling lights, homes filled with the scent of pine and baked goods, and the sound of carols echoing through the air signal the arrival of this cherished holiday. Yet, beneath the surface of the modern celebration lies a rich tapestry of history, tradition, and meaning that has evolved over centuries. To truly appreciate Christmas, one must delve into its genuine origins, explore the contrasts between old and modern celebrations, understand its significance, and reflect on how we can celebrate it meaningfully today.
The genesis of Christmas is a complex narrative woven from various cultural, religious, and historical threads. While many associate the holiday primarily with the birth of Jesus Christ, its roots extend far beyond the Christian tradition. The date of December 25th was chosen by early Christians to coincide with existing pagan festivals that celebrated the winter solstice, such as Saturnalia in ancient Rome and Yule in Northern Europe. These festivals honored the return of longer days and the rebirth of the sun, symbolizing hope and renewal. By aligning Christmas with these celebrations, early Christians sought to facilitate the transition to Christianity for pagan communities, allowing them to retain some of their cherished customs while embracing the new faith.
As Christianity spread, various cultures infused their own traditions into the Christmas celebration. For instance, the Germanic influence introduced the Yule log, while the English brought forth the tradition of Christmas caroling. The figure of Santa Claus, derived from St. Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop known for his generosity, further evolved through the amalgamation of various cultural influences, including Dutch and British folklore. This rich history illustrates that Christmas is not merely a Christian holiday but a global celebration that has absorbed diverse customs and practices over time.
The contrast between old and modern Christmas celebrations is striking. In the past, Christmas was a time for communal gatherings, marked by feasting, storytelling, and the sharing of gifts among family and friends. The focus was on togetherness and the spirit of giving, often without the commercial pressures that characterize contemporary celebrations. Traditional carols were sung, and the Nativity scene was a central symbol, reminding participants of the holiday’s religious significance. The emphasis was on simplicity, gratitude, and the joy of being with loved ones.
In stark contrast, modern Christmas has become a commercial juggernaut, often overshadowing its original meaning. The holiday season is now marked by rampant consumerism, with advertisements urging people to buy the latest gadgets, toys, and luxury items. The pressure to create the “perfect” Christmas experience can lead to stress and anxiety, detracting from the joy and warmth that the season is meant to evoke. While many still cherish the traditions of yesteryear, the modern celebration often prioritizes materialism over meaningful connections, leading to a disconnection from the holiday’s true essence.
Despite the commercialization of Christmas, its significance remains profound. At its core, Christmas is a celebration of love, hope, and goodwill. It serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and generosity, encouraging individuals to extend kindness to those in need. The holiday also fosters a sense of community, as people come together to celebrate, share meals, and create lasting memories. For many, Christmas is a time for reflection, a moment to pause and appreciate the blessings in their lives, and an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends.
In a world that often feels divided and chaotic, the spirit of Christmas offers a chance for unity and healing. It invites individuals to embrace the values of empathy, forgiveness, and understanding, transcending cultural and religious boundaries. The holiday encourages acts of charity, whether through volunteering at local shelters, donating to food banks, or simply reaching out to those who may be feeling lonely during the season. By embodying the true spirit of Christmas, individuals can contribute to a more compassionate and connected world.
As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it is essential to consider how we can celebrate Christmas in a way that honors its rich history and significance. First and foremost, individuals should strive to prioritize meaningful connections over material possessions. This can be achieved by focusing on experiences rather than gifts—organizing family gatherings, participating in community events, or engaging in acts of service together. By creating shared memories, we can foster a deeper sense of belonging and joy.
Additionally, embracing the traditions of the past can enrich our modern celebrations. Incorporating elements such as caroling, storytelling, and the creation of handmade gifts can infuse the holiday with a sense of authenticity and warmth. These practices not only honor the history of Christmas but also encourage creativity and thoughtfulness in our gift-giving and interactions with others.
Moreover, it is crucial to cultivate an attitude of gratitude during the holiday season. Taking time to reflect on the blessings in our lives, whether big or small, can shift our focus from what we lack to what we have. This practice can be as simple as keeping a gratitude journal or sharing moments of appreciation with loved ones during holiday gatherings. By fostering a mindset of gratitude, we can enhance our overall well-being and deepen our connections with others.
Finally, it is essential to remember that Christmas is not solely about the festivities but also about the values it embodies. Embracing the spirit of giving, compassion, and kindness can transform our celebrations into meaningful acts of love. Whether through volunteering, supporting local businesses, or simply reaching out to someone in need, we can embody the true essence of Christmas and make a positive impact in our communities.
In conclusion, Christmas is a multifaceted celebration with deep historical roots and profound significance. While the modern holiday may often feel overshadowed by commercialism, its essence remains a beacon of hope, love, and togetherness. By understanding its genuine background, appreciating the contrasts between old and modern celebrations, and embracing its core values, we can celebrate Christmas in a way that honors its rich heritage and fosters meaningful connections. As we gather with loved ones this season, let us remember the true spirit of Christmas and strive to create a world filled with compassion, generosity, and joy.