By Emmanuel Chilemba:
Providence Industrial Mission (PIM) Church has urged followers of political parties to refrain from wearing party colours at commemorations marking Chilembwe Day in Chiradzulu District today.
Activities marking the day will take place at PIM headquarters.
PIM deputy publicity secretary Davis Kambewa says, in a statement, that they are asking patrons to the event to forget about party colours because the event is a unifying one.
- Advertisement -
“Additionally, in the spirit of unity and peace, the church appeals to all followers of political parties to refrain from wearing party colours during the event.
- Advertisement -
“Therefore, all Malawians are urged to come together as one entity to cerebrate Chilembwe’s life and legacy of heroism,” the statement reads.
Kambewa adds that the event gives Malawians the opportunity to reflect on the county’s history and recommit themselves to the ideals of independence and self-determination, hence the need to patronise the same, regardless of religious and political affiliations.
Traditionally, the event starts with the ceremony of laying wreaths at PIM memorial pillar, followed by a military parade as a mark of respect and remembrance to those that sacrificed their lives for the sake of others.
A memorial service of worship then follows.
- Advertisement -
This year’s event marks 109 years since Chilembwe departed and will be commemorated under the theme ‘Extend Our Territory Lord’.
The theme is inspired by 1 Chronicles 4:10.
Chilembwe is believed to have been born in 1871 and died on February 3 1915.
He led those who took part in the resistance against the ill-treatment of Africans working on European-owned plantations.
President Lazarus Chakwera is expected to be at the event.
