Federalism should be national issue—Synod
CCAP Synod of Livingstonia has said the push for federalism should be a national initiative to avoid elements of regionalism marring the initiative.
Calls for federalism have taken centre stage, especially in the Northern Region where people feel discriminated against in many ways and see federalism as solution to the problem.
The push, being championed by a number of groups and politicians, has also seen Karonga youths planning pro-federalism demonstrations to take place at the end of this month.
Speaking in an interview on Wednesday, synod general secretary Reverend Levi Nyondo said the Northern Region should not be seen to be the only one championing federalism, arguing doing so might lead to further discrimination.
He said federalism has to be a national initiative, adding the synod will soon come up with a statement to show its stand.
“We have been quiet because, currently, there are meetings between politicians and traditional leaders. We are waiting to see what they will come up with. Once that is done, we are going to come up with our stand on the matter,” said Nyondo.
In a separate interview, Karonga Youth for Justice and Development (KYJD) leader Steve Simsokwe confirmed that the youth, alongside other citizens, will hold pro-federalism demonstrations on September 28.
Simsokwe said plans for the demonstrations are at an advanced stage and the youth are mobilising other people to participate.
“We are tired of being treated as second-class citizens. We are not benefiting from our own resources. Look at Karonga, we have a lot of mines and the Malawi Revenue Authority [MRA] border post makes a lot of money, but what has Karonga benefited?” said Simsokwe.
But in a related development, Karonga Business Community (KBC) has issued a press statement condemning federalism and secession calls.
let other regions dicides also on this fedral Gov not only northern region.. other regions they dont want…karonga youth are just youth not northern region or malawi as whole.. this will never happens God should help us
This is where it gets interesting. When it came to CCAP, the Livingstonia synod did not want federation of the church but wanted to follow its flock into the central and southern regions. When it comes to government then you want federation. And why pushing it to the other regions as well. This is the issue for the people from the north? Do not push it on us. Decide what you want to do by yourselves. Once you do that let Malawians know what you have decided
Any Nyondo, why waiting for what traditional leaders and politicians will decide? Are you not supposed to be directed by the bible? Why dont you seek guidance from God on the issue? Why wait upon people who have proved to lack moral fibre? Why be in the church at all? I really feel sorry for your flock?
Hi,
northerners are for federation, we are tired of being used. Southerners don’t want federation coz of the gains from the north
Tribalist Nyondo, federation is the idea of Northerners, it is not and will not be a national issue. Northeners will not be content until they dominate every company and government department they way they dominate Ilovo, Total, Kayelekela, Mzuzu university, Malawi housing etc. For me I would urge you lot to declare independence, no southern or central solder will travel North to force you to be part of Malawi. Do not make noise daily just become independent. The rest of us will move on peacefully. Why always 10% of the population would be causing problems in other regions?
Mwaonjezatu inu