By Rahim Abdul
Zomba Malosa Member of Parliament Grace Kwelepeta has called for tougher punishments for people convicted of murdering highly skilled professionals in Malawi, following the deaths of medical doctor Atughanile Chomo and Victoria Bobe.
Kwelepeta said the country invests significant financial resources and years of training to produce professionals, especially in the health sector, making their lives invaluable to national development.
She noted that Dr. Chomo had only recently begun serving the nation after completing his medical training, making his death a major loss to the country’s healthcare system.
The legislator stressed that individuals found guilty of killing skilled professionals should receive severe penalties to deter similar crimes in the future.
Kwelepeta made the remarks while contributing to a parliamentary statement on the death of Dr. Chomo, which was presented by Minister of Homeland Security Feston Kaunda on behalf of the Minister of Homeland Security, Peter Mukhito.
She further urged authorities to ensure that all suspects connected to the murder are prosecuted without unnecessary delays once the case reaches the courts.
Kwelepeta said speedy justice would send a strong message that Malawi will not tolerate attacks on professionals serving the nation.
Responding to the concerns, Kaunda agreed that the safety and security of doctors and other healthcare workers require special attention.
He said the recent attacks suggest that criminals may be deliberately targeting medical professionals for their own motives, a trend that demands urgent intervention.
Kaunda emphasized that law enforcement agencies must strengthen measures to protect healthcare workers while they carry out their duties across the country.
The minister also assured Parliament that police investigators and forensic experts handling such cases would work swiftly to ensure investigations are completed and suspects are brought before the courts.
He said the government remains committed to ensuring justice for the victims and creating a safer environment for all professionals serving the people of Malawi.
