President Dr Lazarus Chakwera says the country’s Martyrs left important lessons of patriotism, hard work and unity which Malawians need to emulate if Malawi is to develop.
The President said this in NkhataBay on Sunday during the commemoration of Martyr’s Day and memorial service of worship.
“A good citizenry must learn from the fallen heroes by, among others, remaining united, being patriotic and taking part in developing the nation, instead of waiting for someone to come and solve their problems,” he said.
He added that the freedom fighters left a lesson that the citizenry can use the available resources and wisdom to end poverty.
During the ceremony, Dr Chakwera also expressed concern over some people who always say bad things about the country, saying this is against the mission of freedom fighters.
The President has since directed the Ministry of Justice to ensure that the bereaved families are compensated accordingly.
Minister of Local Government Unity and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda, said the Mega farms initiative and major developments in the education sector like construction of Mombela University in Mzimba will help to facilitate the freedom that the fallen heroes fought for.
Senior Chief Mkumbira of NkhataBay thanked Dr Chakwera for remembering the people of the district through various humanitarian assistance including the distribution of maize.
Concurring with the traditional leader, James Thawi who represented the bereaved families said their families are now living a better life due to the support that the government is rendering to them.
Falling on 3 March every year, this year’s Martyrs Day commemoration was held under the theme ‘Remembering our heroes: Upholding their legacy through unity and progress’.
By Musase Cheyo
