PAC, govt talks deadlock breeds new group

The deadlock in dialogue between the Public Affairs Committee (PAC) and the government over issues the quasi-religious group presented has given  rise to a new movement which is calling for a ‘revolutionary’ approach to critical issues.

The movement comprising religious leaders from districts across the country, businesspersons, young politicians and other professionals have come out to challenge the current PAC/government dialogue impasse, claiming voices of common Malawians are not been fully embraced.

The group calling itself the Transformation Alliance (TA), according to president of Young Politicians Khumbo Mazonde, seeks to harness voices of youths, women and players in various sectors to push for radical changes to the country’s political system.

PAC suspended the talks last month, accusing the government negotiating team chaired by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Samuel Tembenu, of lacking commitment.

President Peter Mutharika appointed the team in line with the outcome of an audience he had with PAC on April 21 2016 where the religious body presented to him resolutions from its February 2016 Fifth All-Inclusive Stakeholders Conference.

But reacting to the formation of the new group, PAC spokesperson Father Peter Mulomole on Thursday said his organisation was not to blame for the stalling of the dialogue process.

“If some people are angry at PAC over lack of progress in the talks then that is misplaced. For those that are branding us toothless, then so be it.

“As PAC our role is to advocate on issues by playing our prophetic role. There is nothing much we can do about it. We do not know what exactly our colleagues on the government side are thinking about this dialogue,” he said.

Associate Professor of Law at University of Malawi’s Chancellor College, Edge Kanyongolo, said as long as the new group follows the Constitution, there was nothing wrong to push for ‘a revolution’.

“Revolution is an ordinary English word which refers to a radical change of approach. It is, therefore, not treasonous to be revolutionary. But as long as the people involved do not seek to unlawfully overthrow government, I see nothing wrong with it,” he said.

Quizzed why the new group is pushing for a revolution now, Mazonde described the country’s 52 years of independence as a lost opportunity for the country to make ground on policies and implementation that would bring about genuine inclusive transformation for the country.

“The country has celebrated mediocrity for much too long. With it has been the disregard for true patriotism which could have reshaped the country. Time has come, for Malawians to wake up and stop pretending that things are alright.

“We want to rescue our country’s future generation from suffering from our present passiveness, hence, we believe only unity from all well-meaning Malawians from all sectors will change things for the better,” he said.

However, Mazonde would not divulge more information on the grouping, but said it has roped in reputable members of society and plans are in the offing to formalise its formation.

Former Information Minister Moses Kunkuyu, whose name was being mentioned as member of the group, confirmed to have had engagement with the grouping, but said he was not part of the revolution team.

In an interview, Kunkuyu, the former People’s Party (PP) deputy publicity secretary only said he has been in touch with members of the group.

“It is true the members shared the initiative’s objectives with me, but it has been a while, but I can support the move as long as it is for national building and in public interest,” said Kunkuyu while refusing further questions. Another high-profile figure mentioned in connection with the group is  Press Corporation Limited chief executive Matthews Chikaonda.

But in an interview, Chikaonda rubbished reports linking him to the group, saying he has for many times been associated with various political parties and groups.

“I have not even heard about this grouping, however, I am not a stranger to such rumours.

“My plans are that I should use my experience to mentor the youths who are the future of this country. I want to share with them the direction to which I believe the country ought to take. When I retire, I will make a proper announcement as to what exactly I will be doing,” said Chikaonda.