Maravi

(NYASATIMES) Malawi activists silenced --Kamlepo

Malawi activists silenced --Kamlepo
Nyasa Times
07 April, 2009 02:36:00

A fervent critic of President Bingu Wa Mutharika, Kamlepo Kalua, who is leader of the Malawi Democratic Party (MDP) has said the country's Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and faith based organizations were abetting the Malawi leader to unleash a reign of terror in the country.

Speaking in the populous Ndirande Township in Blantyre on Sunday during a rally convened by former President Dr. Bakili Muluzi, Kalua noted that during Muluzi's reign, NGOs and faith organizations were very critical of his rule, but they are quite during the administration of Mutharika.

"During the time of Muluzi, these people were all over demonstrating and issuing out pastoral letters against him, but now despite the rising incidences of lawlessness and abuse of human rights by the Bingu administration, they are silent. They are pretending as if nothing is happening,” said the free-speaking politician.

"I know that they are bought. Their mouths are stashed with scones, which make them very difficult to speak out against all these abuses,” claimed Kalua who was arrested recently for remarks at another political rally and is answering charges of sedition.

He said lack of vibrant civil society and faith community’s activism is giving President Mutharika a room to bring back the oppressive regime against dissenters

“Your silence is giving room to institute a reign of terror in the country," said Kalua.

He said since 20004, the country's civil society organizations have lost credibility due to their silence on issues which are affecting the country.

President Mutharika appointed most of the NGO leaders and faith group leaders in public positions.

Labels: BINGU WA MUTHARIKA, KAMLEPO KALUA

posted by MrK @ 8:10 PM