Red Cross Society decries Covid-19 politicisation

Malawi Red Cross Society (MRCS) has said sentiments from some politicians that there is no Covid-19 in Malawi are derailing efforts by government and stakeholders in the fight against the pandemic.

MRCS communications and humanitarian diplomacy specialist Felix Washon said this on Thursday at the end of a two-day Covid-19 community mobilisation and feedback tour in Mwanza District.

“We have observed that there has been laxity, especially for politicians on disseminating Covid-19 messages after political parties submitted nomination papers and during the [just-ended] campaign rallies,” he said.

He said if the tendency continues, it will be difficult to combat the pandemic as people will believe what politicians say.

Senior Chief Nthache commended MRCS for the intervention, saying it will enhance behaviour change among people.

“People should be reminded every time about the existence of the pandemic so they can observe preventive measures,” he said.

The chief also appealed for more hand washing materials.

MRCS campaign has started with 20 districts in the country through audio messages on a mobile van.