HRCC wants 3rd party to mediate in border dispute

The Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC), a network of 90 civil society organisations and NGOs, says it is disturbed by the simmering border conflict between Malawi and Tanzania on Lake Malawi.

HRCC chairperson Undule Mwakasungula and his deputy Margaret Ali have since suggested that a neutral and credible third party should mediate to put the issue to rest.

In a statement dated November 10, the two argue that although the border dispute might be historical, it is disturbing that the latest row has resurfaced shortly after Malawi publicised its intentions to explore oil.

“While we do not want to be tempted to take sides, HRCC believes the issue should not really be as complicated as it appears on the surface, taking into consideration that both Malawi and Tanzania are using the same Heligoland Treaty of 1890 to build their case,” reads a statement.

On the socioeconomic front in the country, HRCC has welcomed President Joyce Banda and her deputy Khumbo Kachali’s decision for slashing their salaries by 30 percent, saying the gesture is a commitment to walking the talk on sacrifice.

But HRCC has expressed worry about the development of the Economic Recovery Plan (ERP) without consulting some key stakeholders such as the civil society.

On the political front, HRCC has faulted the People’s Party (PP) for imposing candidates during the Mzimba by-elections. HRCC has also taken issue with the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) which is yet to organise a convention.