Peter Mutharika warns people with albinism commission
By Audrey Kapalamula:
President Peter Mutharika has warned newly sworn-in commission of enquiry members on abduction and killing of people with albinism (pwas) to desist from political interference.
Mutharika warned of some people who may be paid to mislead the commission with false information, citing the case of an enquiry into the death of Robert Chasowa, The Polytechnic student.
“One police officer was paid to provide false information and named someone to be responsible for the death,” he said.
Mutharika made the remarks Monday during the swearing-in of six members of the commission which retired judge Robert Chinangwa is chairing.
Other members of the commission are Abigail Dzimadzi, Paramount Chief Kawinga, Lexa Chalera, George Jobe and Brenda Kapenda.
He accused UTM and civil society organisations of funding Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi (Apam) to fight the government.
Mutharika also hit at Apam for working with the opposition despite the government’s efforts to engage the association in discussions on the matter.
He has appealed to the public to soberly collaborate with the commission to have a fruitful enquiry.
Chinangwa said the commission was ready to work with diligence.
“I will stand to the ethics and calling of this commission not to include politics or entertain politicians. They are free to provide information but we will not be manipulated,” he said.
The commission was appointed on March 5 2019 with an aim of finding the cause and circumstances surrounding attacks on pwas.
The commission is expected to report to Mutharika on April 30 2019.
This follows a meeting with Poor and Concerned People with Albinism representatives, where they asked for Mutharika to intervene in the matter.
UTM spokesperson, Joseph Chidanti- Malunga, Monday said it was irresponsible of Mutharika to accuse the party of influencing Apam.
“If they have the evidence, let them bring it because people want solutions to this issue. It is very unfortunate that this is coming from the President,” Chidanti- Malunga said.
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