President Lazarus Chakwera and the clergy Thursday dared Malawians to become more patriotic and draw closer to God as the country celebrates 59 years of independence.
Chakwera was part of the prayers after, earlier in the day, he welcomed Tanzania President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who jetted in the country through Kamuzu International Airport to be part of Independence Day celebrations.
In his speech during the National Prayer Service in Lilongwe, Chakwera asked Malawians to set aside time and pray for the nation with patriotism and unity as the country celebrates its independence.
“The best source of our patriotism is God Himself; for it is God who decided that we should be part of [this nation],” Chakwera said.
All the preachers dwelled on the issue of patriotism, asking Malawians to play their role in nation-building efforts.
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In her sermon, Reverend Matilda Matabwa said Malawi needs to be rebuilt.
She derived her sermon from Nehemiah 3:1-5, a scripture that was read by President Lazarus Chakwera and explains how Nehemiah rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem.
Likewise, Reverend Billy Gama said every administration has had its triumphs and falls, such that it is high time Malawians supported the current regime’s development plans.
And, in his supplication, Mufti Shamuma Sosola prayed to God to show Chakwera all the people that are misleading him in the government.
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“Pali anthu ena amaoneka ndi nkhope zachilungamo koma ndi anthu akuba kwambiri [some innocent-looking people are thieves],” he said.
Earlier in the day, Chakwera and Vice President Saulos Chilima escorted Suluhu Hassan to Lilongwe Civic Offices, where she was given a key to the city— meaning that she can enter the city and leave as she pleases.
In her remarks, Hassan spoke highly of the city, which she said has a rich African ambience and cultural diversity that allows residents to live in peace and harmony.
“And I have witnessed that. I, therefore, confess that it is a great and special honour for me to be bestowed the key to this beautiful city of Lilongwe and I feel humbled and profoundly grateful”, she said.
Later that night, Chakwera hosted her to dinner at Kamuzu Palace.
She is expected to visit Parliament this morning.
