CCJP says Malawi’s democracy fertile ground for enrichment

The Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) says Malawi's democracy has not transformed for the past 17 years and remains a fertile ground for whoever comes to power to enrich themselves at the expense of the electorate.

CCJP notes that the political systems and structures that supported colonialism and the one party era are still there and the regimes keep taking advantages of the loopholes in constitution to easily advance personal agenda "the very same things seem to happen this time around"

Ironically, one of the concerns Civil Society groups in Malawi raised in their 20 point petition to President Bingu wa Mutharika is the clarification of his new found wealth.

"At least president Bingu wa Mutharika gave us hope when he was in minority," CCJP National Secretary Chris Chisoni observed.

Chisoni; Wrongful enrichment is rampant

Chisoni said this in a public statement ahead of the International day of democracy which falls on September 15 each year. This year's theme is: 'What do citizens expect from their Parliaments?'

He said Malawi's Parliament is detached from the masses and seems to have ignored the critical role of representation.

"Out cries are wide spread of constituents denoting that they are not consulted on their social needs. The same can be evident in the august House as MPs spend half or more of their time singing praises and worshiping the powers that be instead of presenting critical issues," Chisoni noted.

He said their "taking Parliament to the people initiative" could restore the much needed feedback that can benefit both parties but it needs a lot of awareness.

"They can… engage the civil society as an alternative in implementing this but civil society need to tread carefully," Chisoni warned.

Nyasa Times 11 Sep, 2011

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Source: http://www.nyasatimes.com/national/ccjp-says-malawi%e2%80%99s-democracy-fertile-ground-for-enrichment/
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