Author: Boo Chanco

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has warned that it will organise nationwide demonstrations if government operations continue to move in the wrong direction.

HRDC Chairperson, Michael Kaiyatsa, said the organisation is prepared to take to the streets because peaceful protests are a constitutional right in Malawi.

He emphasised that the coalition’s primary objective is to ensure that duty-bearers fulfill the promises they made to Malawians.

Kaiyatsa said HRDC will not hesitate to mobilise citizens if leaders ignore the concerns and needs of the very people who put them in office.

He added that the organisation’s responsibility is to hold public officials accountable, especially when service delivery is poor or when governance commitments are abandoned.

According to Kaiyatsa, demonstrations remain one of the most effective tools for citizens to demand transparency and action from their leaders.

He explained that if those in authority fail to act in the public interest, HRDC is ready to remind them of their obligations through lawful protests.

Last Saturday, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) issued a statement distancing itself from any upcoming demonstrations planned by civil society.

The party said it will not support activities by organisations whose intentions, in its view, are likely to disturb peace and stability in the country.

DPP argued that while citizens have the right to protest, such actions must not be used to create unnecessary tension or insecurity.

The party further stated that it has no intention of aligning itself with groups whose plans may escalate unrest.

HRDC, however, maintains that its intentions are not to cause instability but to demand accountability from public leaders.

Kaiyatsa reiterated that the coalition remains committed to peaceful and lawful means of expressing citizen grievances.

He stressed that Malawians deserve a government that listens, acts, and remains answerable to the electorate.

The emerging tension between HRDC and the DPP highlights a growing political divide on how governance concerns should be addressed.

Observers say the situation could escalate if the government does not provide clear responses to the issues raised by Malawians.

HRDC has assured the public that it will announce its next steps if leaders continue to neglect their duties.

The organisation has also encouraged citizens to remain vigilant and demand better services from public officials.

As the political atmosphere heats up, all eyes now turn to the government’s next move in addressing the growing frustrations among the population.

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BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Giants NC have cemented their status as one of Blantyre’s rising netball powerhouses after outclassing Blantyre Tremors 35–28 in a decisive Rainbow Paints Blantyre and Districts Netball League match played over week end at Sports Arena in Blantyre.

The fixture, which drew hundreds of excited supporters, was the final showdown of the season with both teams entering the court tied on 33 points setting the stage for a winner-takes-all contest.

Blantyre Tremors started strongly and maintained tight defensive formations but Giants displayed better ball movement and sharper shooting accuracy that gradually turned the momentum in their favour.

Although both teams finished the league with the same number of points, Giants emerged champions thanks to a superior goal difference, highlighting their consistency throughout the season.

Chairperson of the league’s organizing committee, Nthombizana Thindwa, praised the level of competition this year, describing it as one of the most thrilling seasons in recent years.

He added that having the title decided on the final day shows how much teams have improved in discipline, physical fitness and tactical awareness.

Former Malawi Queens captain and guest of honour, Judith Chalusa, said she was impressed by the talent on display, noting that many players showed passion and skill worthy of national team consideration.

Chalusa emphasized that such high-level competition helps prepare young players for the demands of international netball and strengthens the pipeline to the Malawi Queens.

Rainbow Paints commercial manager, Takondwa Basikolo, expressed satisfaction with the successful conclusion of the tournament, saying the company remains committed to supporting women’s sports in Malawi.

Basikolo added that the competitiveness seen this year encourages sponsors to invest even more in grassroots netball development.

For their victory, Giants received K4 million, while runners-up Blantyre Tremors walked away with K2.5 million to support the growth of their squads.

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LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has come under heavy criticism from citizens across various social media platforms following its announcement to organise nationwide demonstrations if the government continues moving in the wrong direction.

HRDC Chairperson Michael Kaiyatsa stated that the organisation is prepared to take to the streets, arguing that peaceful protests are a constitutional right in Malawi.

He emphasised that the coalition’s mission is to ensure that duty-bearers fulfill the promises they made to Malawians.

Kaiyatsa added that HRDC will not hesitate to mobilise citizens if leaders ignore the concerns of the very people who elected them.

However, the public reaction has been overwhelmingly negative, with many questioning the credibility, timing, and motives of the organisation.

On the Politics Beyond 2025 Elections platform, Ishmael Jaffali criticised HRDC, accusing its leaders of contributing to the country’s decline.

He argued that some HRDC members are known for frequenting embassies, implying hidden agendas and external influences.

Another commentator, Mulumuzana, expressed doubt that HRDC has the moral grounds to speak now, saying that by 2029 it will become clear that the government has failed to fulfil its promises.

Steve, a contributor on another platform, said that Malawians have lost trust in HRDC, describing it as a group sponsored by the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).

On a separate discussion, Bambo a Billy mocked HRDC, asking where the organisation was when people were struggling with severe economic hardship.

He described the coalition as “foolish” for acting as if it has suddenly discovered the suffering of ordinary Malawians.

Ishmael Jaffali added another sharp comment, calling their actions shameless and accusing HRDC of lacking integrity.

On The Maravi Post comment section, another citizen pointed out that HRDC supporters are among those shocked by the economic realities, including 30% PAYE and 17.5% VAT, which ordinary citizens have been enduring for years.

Apostle Kopolo Banda, writing on Voice of Real Citizens, dismissed HRDC’s statement, calling it an act of shamelessness.

Another commentator, Apasulani, used strong language, calling HRDC leaders “dogs” who should not mislead Malawians.

Sankhani joined in with sarcasm, joking that HRDC has finally been “released from the rope,” suggesting they were previously restrained or controlled.

Heather Kalino harshly criticised HRDC, telling them to “go away” with what she described as useless actions.

On the Politics and Ideologies forum, Peter Symon said the public will not tolerate HRDC’s “nonsense” this time around.

He insisted that the streets no longer belong to HRDC and that Malawians will reject any attempts to mislead them.

The collective sentiment across these platforms shows a significant erosion of trust in HRDC, with many citizens feeling that the organisation has failed to consistently hold the government accountable.

Critics argue that HRDC remained silent during years of economic challenges, political missteps, and unfulfilled promises, only to rise now when public frustration has peaked.

The backlash highlights a growing disconnection between civil society leaders and the general public, with many Malawians demanding authenticity, consistency, and non-partisan advocacy.

As HRDC contemplates the possibility of demonstrations, it faces an uphill battle to regain the confidence of citizens who feel abandoned.

The reaction also underscores the shifting political landscape, where the public is increasingly vocal and unwilling to accept selective activism.

For now, HRDC’s warning has sparked more criticism than support, raising questions about its relevance and effectiveness in Malawi’s evolving civic space.

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LUANDA-(MaraviPost)-Malawi’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. George Chaponda, has emphasized the importance of the African Union-European Union (AU-EU) Summit in achieving the country’s development agenda.

Speaking in Luanda, Angola, Chaponda highlighted Malawi’s intention to discuss industrial development and digital industrialization with EU partners.

The EU is one of Malawi’s strongest partners, providing grants, loans, technical assistance, trade facilitation, and energy support.

Chaponda stressed that access to the sea is critical for Malawi’s development, and he will raise the issue of the Nacala Corridor to facilitate fuel transportation and ensure a steady supply.

“Malawi’s access to the sea depends on road and rail transportation.The development of a port on the Nacala Corridor will boost trade and development in terms of access to the market for our products and also bring vital supplies such as fuel,” Chaponda said.

The summit, co-chaired by Angolan President João Lourenço and European Council President António Costa, marks 25 years of EU-AU partnership.

Malawi’s delegation, led by Vice President Jane Ansah, aims to strengthen economic partnerships and secure support for national development.

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BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-United General Insurance (UGI) has donated food supplies valued at K3 million to St Maria Goretti Resource Centre for visually impaired children in Nkhata Bay, to help the institution sustain its feeding programme.

The donation, made in partnership with Sprodeta on Monday, is intended to benefit the learners since they do not pay school fees.

The items include maize, beans, cereals, cooking oil, sugar and soap. 

UGI Chief Operating Officer (COO), McDonald Chibwe said the company aims to reduce the challenges faced by vulnerable learners so they can remain in school.

“Ensuring that these children have the basic necessities needed for learning is important to us. This support is meant to ease the pressure on the institution and allow learners to focus on their education,” said Chibwe.

St Maria Goretti Director, Father Andrew Kamanga said the centre depends entirely on donations to operate, making food one of its most frequent shortages.

“This donation will sustain us through the rest of this term and assist us as we begin the next. We are very grateful to UGI and Sprodeta for this support,” said Kamanga.

The centre cares for children with albinism, total blindness and low vision, and continues to face challenges such as limited accommodation, high utility costs and inadequate bedding.

UGI says it will continue supporting interventions that promote access to education and basic welfare for vulnerable groups.

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BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-National Bank of Malawi (NBM) plc has committed K11.2 million to the Senior Golfers Society of Malawi to support its 2025 Golf Tournament and Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for this weekend.

From the total amount, K5.2 million is cash, while K6 million has been spent on golf shirts for members to wear during the tournament.

Speaking during the cheque handover ceremony on Friday, NBM plc Pension Administration Limited (PAL) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), William Mabulekesi, stressed the Bank’s commitment to recognizing the contributions of senior golfers to Malawi’s development.

“These senior golfers have given so much to our country through their leadership, expertise, and mentorship. Many have guided individuals who now hold prominent positions in both the public and private sectors. Others were captains of industry and continue to mentor even in retirement. It is only fitting that we honour their legacy by supporting their activities.”

“We believe that giving back to the community also means supporting activities that promote wellness and engagement. Sports are an essential part of life. They allow individuals to relax, recharge, and maintain their health. We are proud to support golf as we already support women’s football, including the Scorchers team,” said Mabulekesi.

Senior Golfers Society Chairperson Eric Chinkanda expressed gratitude for the Bank’s support, noting the impact on both the association and its members.

“This year, NBM plc has stepped in, allowing us to host what we now proudly call the National Bank Senior Golfers Closed AGM Tournament. Their support ensures that our members can come together, celebrate achievements, share experiences, and plan for the year ahead. We hope this partnership will continue for many years,” said Chinkanda.

According to Chinkanda, the Society, which has membership from across the country, aims to foster networking, mentorship, and healthy engagement among retirees while exploring partnerships within the SADC region to exchange knowledge and best practices.

This year’s support from NBM plc marks the first corporate sponsorship the Society has received in three years.

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BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Walkers Social Club, a group of diverse professionals who walk every Saturday morning, will, in collaboration with the Queen Elizabeth Central hospital (QECH) Children’s Cancer Ward conduct a fun walk to raise funds for children suffering from cancer at the referral hospital.

Paediatric Oncologist at QECH Dr Beatrice Chikaphonya Phiri said in an interview yesterday that they decided to partner with The Walkers Social Club for the fun walk since the group is well established and can help them raise money for the Cancer Children’s ward.

The fun walk will be held from 6am on Saturday 6 December from QECH via Masauko Chipembere Highway up to Chichiri Roundabout and back to QECH.

“We believe our partnership with The Walkers will yield intended results. We have not restricted this to the Walkers Social Club members only, but anyone who is free to participate can do so or can contribute to this cause. Little innocent children are suffering because of Cancer and we need to step up and help,” said Chikaphonya Phiri.

She further said the Children’s Cancer Ward has a dedicated team who serves both in- and out-patients in the 34-bed ward and also runs outpatient clinics daily and diagnoses about 250 children with cancer annually.

“This year we would like to raise awareness of childhood cancer, encourage coordinated action, advocate for improved access to care for children with cancer and overcome the challenges and inequalities encountered by the children with cancer, their families and the healthcare personnel looking after them.”

“These challenges include; shortage of essential equipment and drugs, delayed diagnosis and treatment abandonment which is largely due to the financial burden on the families, poor access to amenities and support, and lack of awareness on childhood cancer.

“We sincerely request any generous support to address the various material gaps impacting delivery of quality of care for the children in the Children’s Cancer Ward at QECH,” said Chikaphonya Phiri.

The Walkers Social Club Coordinator Chiwawa Msimuko-Madise said they feel humbled to partner QECH to raise funds for the Children’s Cancer ward saying this is one of their objectives.

“As the Walkers Social Club, one of our objectives is to promote wellness, community engagement, and charitable impact through walking and social events and this partnership provides that opportunity to raise funds so that we can help our children and the Cancer ward.”

“We have encouraged all our members in our various chapters in Zombo, Thyolo, Lilongwe, Salima and Mzuzu to take part in the fun walk and raise funds. We are also appealing to others who are not in our group but would want to help to this cause to do so,” said Msimuko-Madise.

She challenged the Walkers to increase the distance of the proposed route to raise more funds.

Chikaphonya Phiri said participants to the walk are expected to pay a minimum registration fee of K5,000 and those who would want to support in cash can do so directly to the following account; QECH Children’s Cancer Ward, National Bank of Malawi, Top Mandala Branch, account number: 1013370897.

The post The Walkers in QECH Children’s Cancer fundraising walk Dec 6 appeared first on The Maravi Post.

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Salvation for All Ministries International (SFAMI), led by Apostle Clifford Kawinga, has extended its outreach to the remote island district of Likoma, hosting a major gospel crusade at Madimba Ground under Senior Chief Mkumpha III.

The initiative aims to bridge the long-standing accessibility gap that has left many communities underserved.

As part of its mission to support vulnerable households spiritually and materially, the ministry has distributed food relief items to 2,000 beneficiaries, each receiving 15kg of maize.

Additionally, 80 bags of 50kg maize to 39 traditional leaders in the area.

Speaking during the crusade, Senior Chief Mkumpha III ,Gift Chapchap expressed gratitude for the gesture, noting that Likoma is often neglected because of transportation challenges.

“Most people avoid coming here, saying transport is a major barrier. This support shows that we are not forgotten,” he said.

The Chief added that the food assistance would greatly help families who largely depend on fishing, as crop cultivation remains difficult on the island.

Apostle Kawinga emphasized that SFAMI’s outreach combines spiritual nourishment with humanitarian aid to foster holistic growth in communities.

He said the ministry was moved to intervene following reports that 4.7 million households across Malawi have been affected by hunger.

“We came to Likoma because history shows it is a hard-to-reach area, yet the needs are great,” he said.

SFAMI has so far reached 24 districts nationwide with similar support.

Beyond his pastoral calling, Apostle Kawinga is also recognized as a visionary entrepreneur.

He is the founder of Creck Hardware and General Suppliers, CK Storage, Creck Sporting Club, and several other ventures aimed at community development and economic empowerment.

The post Apostle Kawinga ministries extend hand to Likoma Island appeared first on The Maravi Post.

….Eagles 1-2 Moyale

By Edwin Mbewe

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Moyale Barracks, The Lions of Kaning’ina came from a 1-0 deficit to defeat 10-men Blue Eagles FC 2-1 at Nankhaka Stadium in the capital, Lilongwe.

Played on a muddy pitch following the rains that hit Area 30 before the match kicked off, both teams failed to display good football as the ball could easily stop and get stuck in the mud, hence players opted for aerial balls.

The visitors were aggressive when attacking in the first half, playing more corner kicks and free kicks than the hosts.

Despite their dominance, they couldn’t find the back of the net.

In the third minute, Micium Mhone won a free kick close to the 18-yard box, but Maxwell Gustavo’s effort went straight into the palms of goalkeeper Olyce Nkhwazi.

Moyale replied quickly as Clever Kalambo delivered a clever pass to Lameck Mithi, who miscued it and the ball went wide for a goal kick to the home side in the 8th minute.

The Lions piled on the pressure and got their first corner kick in the 11th minute. Kalambo took a thunderous shot from the byline with the intention of passing it to Nadrick Nyirenda.

Masamba charged out and parried the ball away to safety for a corner kick. Kalambo took the corner, but it went straight into the palms of Masamba.

In the 24th minute, Clever Kalambo terrorized Eagles’ defense as he took a shot at goal, but the ball hit Nadrick Nyirenda and bounced back in a bizarre situation. The Eagles survived the scare.

In the 33rd minute, Eagles conceded another corner kick as Mdoka floated the ball inside and it deflected off Gustavo before zooming out into touch.

Kalambo took the corner kick, but Masamba parried it to Ganizani James, who released John Banda on the far right.

Banda controlled it and sent a neat pass to Laurent Banda in the box, whose shot went off target.

Micium Mhone received a yellow card for a reckless challenge on Chisomo Chiwanda in the 38th minute. No goals were registered before referee Easter Zimba blew for halftime.

Eagles started the second half on a high note. The home side were awarded a penalty following a handball in the box by Innocent Botoman in the 48th minute. Ganizani James stood firmly behind the ball before converting it into the net, beating Olyce Nkhwazi in goal to take a 1-0 lead.

Moyale Barracks were then everywhere in Eagles’ half as they searched for an equalizer. Nadrick Nyirenda, Charles Nkhoma and Clever Kalambo troubled Eagles as they dominated proceedings. During this period, the visitors played two corner kicks in succession, which were both defended by Eagles.

The Cops made their first change in the 65th minute as Pius Saka replaced John Banda.

Eagles’ scorer, Ganizani James, was shown a straight red card for a foul on Nadrick Nyirenda, who was attacking the home side’s goal. A free kick was awarded close to the 18-yard box.

Charles Nkhoma took the free kick and the ball hit the upright. Walusungu Mdoka met the rebound and scored to restore parity in the 73rd minute, making it 1-1.

To add power to his squad, head coach Pritchard Mwansa made changes as Chifundo Makawa came on for Walusungu Mdoka. In the 84th minute, Charles Nkhoma received a yellow card for a dangerous foul on Pius Saka.
In the 87th minute, Moyale’s Makawa was caught offside as he headed in a Charles Nkhoma pass. Moments later, Moyale Barracks scored through Lameck Mithi, who connected with Clever Kalambo’s neat pass, and soon after, the match ended.

Moyale’s Clever Kalambo was later voted player of the match.

In a post-match interview, Moyale Barracks head coach Pritchard Mwansa described the victory as sweet, being away from home.

“I’m very happy that we have won the match. Though the ground was slippery, the boys gave it their all. After noting the condition of the pitch, we told our boys to play more in attack than defense,” said Mwansa.

Blue Eagles FC head coach Deklerk Msakakuona said it was a good game despite the loss.

“Playing on a waterlogged pitch was tough for the boys. We got a goal and failed to defend it. Our counterparts came to equalize and scored the winning one when we were one man down. We have five games before winding up the season. I believe we will catch up and move up the ladder,” Msakakuona said.

With the win, Moyale Barracks moved to 11th position with 30 points from 23 games.

Blue Eagles FC maintained 7th position despite the defeat. The team has 35 points from 25 games.

The team’s next assignment is away to Karonga against Songwe Border, who suffered a 3-0 defeat to Dedza Dynamos at Karonga Stadium.

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In 2012, South Korean inmate Choi Gap-bok achieved what many considered an impossible prison escape.

Choi was a dedicated yoga practitioner with over ten years of experience, and he relied on his extraordinary flexibility to accomplish the feat.

He managed to squeeze his entire body through the narrow food slot at the bottom of his cell door.

The opening was astoundingly small, measuring just under six inches in height and slightly over seventeen inches in width, barely enough for a head to pass through.

Before attempting his escape, Choi coated himself in skin ointment to reduce friction against the metal frame.

He waited patiently for the perfect moment, choosing to act when three prison guards had fallen asleep.

With slow, deliberate movements, Choi twisted, compressed, and contorted his body through the tiny gap.

He emerged on the other side of the door and slipped quietly into the prison corridor.

Choi remained at large for six days before authorities eventually recaptured him.

The escape drew worldwide attention, capturing imaginations for its sheer audacity.

Observers praised the meticulous planning, rigorous physical discipline, and near-superhuman flexibility that Choi demonstrated.

His jailbreak is widely regarded as one of the most remarkable and bizarre prison escapes in modern history.

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