Chairperson of the Muslim Association of Malawi (MAM) Sheikh Idrissa Muhammad says the association has intensified a sensitisation campaign to promote religious tolerance and coexistence in Mangochi following tensions that arose in 2013 over the sale of pork.
Some Muslims in the district declared Mangochi an Islamic state that has the authority to enact and implement its own laws on religion and morality.
But Muhammad, who said he condemns religious intolerance, said Malawians should continue living together in peace in spite of religious diversity.
“We conduct sensitisation meetings with both Christians and Muslims on the need to coexist. MAM has been engaging religious leaders of different faiths in discussions in how we can cultivate peace and love amidst religious differences. I strongly believe that Malawians can still live together even if they belong to different faiths,” he said.
The MAM chairperson condemned some politicians who he said are dividing people along religious lines to win votes.
“This is very unfortunate and let me take this opportunity to condemn such politicians. Even God would not support them because they are dividing His people just to win an election.
“The other thing I have noted is that most Malawians do not appreciate the importance of peace and harmony we’re enjoying in this country. Had we experienced what is going on in Nigeria and CAR [Central African Republic], they would appreciate why we need this brotherliness,” he said.
