Malawi’s Catholic Bishops Address Corruption and High Living Costs as Barriers to Progress

The Catholic Bishops of Malawi highlight corruption, rising living costs, and ethnic divisions as major challenges to the nation’s progress. They warn of the negative impact of these issues on unity and call for urgent action. With elections approaching, they advise the youth to be cautious of blind loyalty to politicians and denounce reliance on handouts, urging for a sustainable approach to aid.

In Malawi, the Catholic Bishops have identified several severe challenges, including widespread corruption and the escalating cost of living, as critical obstacles to the nation’s recovery. These issues, highlighted in a statement by the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB), are metaphorically described as the “largest and perennial stones” confining the populace within the depths of poverty and despair.

The Bishops express deep concern over corruption, particularly among politicians and civil servants, stating, “Corruption has spread to all aspects of our society.” They lament the wealth amassed by political leaders shortly after assuming office, contrasting this with long-serving civil servants who struggle financially. This raises the question, “How else do these political leaders amass such huge wealth overnight?” in their 16-page statement titled, “Who will roll away the stone for us?”

Moreover, the rising prices of essential goods have become a significant burden, profoundly affecting vendors and boarding schools across the nation. The Bishops note that the high cost of living has become a universal concern, with numerous citizens unable to afford basic necessities.

The Bishops express alarm over the negative effects of ethnic exclusivity that contribute to national disunity, stating that the fragmentation into regional, tribal, religious, and political affiliations poses a severe risk to Malawi’s cohesion. They emphasize the Church’s responsibility, stating, “We cannot pretend that the same vice is threatening to tear asunder the Church, which is a grave sin.”

As general elections approach, they caution youth against blind loyalty to political leaders, indicating that many are willing to engage in violence for parties that have historically failed them. The Bishops have criticized politicians who exploit this vulnerability by offering handouts to manipulate youths into supporting their agendas.

Lastly, the Catholic Bishops denounce the culture of dependence on handouts, acknowledging their part in fostering this mentality through charitable works. They assert, “The MCCB has recently reflected very seriously on the extent to which we have contributed to this spirit of depending on handouts through our development desks,” recognizing the necessity for a more sustainable approach to aid that promotes independence rather than reliance.

The Catholic Bishops of Malawi have articulated significant concerns regarding corruption, the high cost of living, and societal divisions that undermine national unity. They urge for substantial changes to combat these challenges, calling for the youth to exercise discernment in political matters. Furthermore, they emphasize the need to shift away from a dependency on handouts, advocating for a more empowering approach to charitable aid. Their statement encapsulates their commitment to addressing these pressing issues to facilitate Malawi’s resurrection from poverty.

Original Source: www.aciafrica.org