The Malawi Defence Force (MDF) has asked its newly-commissioned soldiers and officers to stay away from politics and remain loyal to the country at large.
MDF Commander Griffin Supuni Phiri emphasised that as soldiers their role is to safeguard the country and its people.
Phiri was speaking during the commissioning and pass out parade of 1462 recruits and 14 cadet officers at the Malawi Armed Forces College – Mafco in Salima.
“You have to understand that your role is to remain loyal to government and the people we are to serve. MDF has a reputation to save. It is known by its discipline. We don’t do politics here,” he said
The newly-commissioned soldiers include those that survived the road accident which claimed 22 lives of soldiers at Malanjira in Mzimba.
The group underwent a five month and nine month intensive training respectively in military tactics, life support, physical fitness among others at the College.
Among the recruits 220 are females.
Phiri further lamented the housing challenge that MDF is currently facing.
“Most of our soldiers live outside the college in rented houses which poses a great challenge administratively as well as operationally. In addition, the officer cadets and recruits accommodation block requires maintenance and expansion to respond to the current needs and demand,” he said
President Peter Mutharika said government will continue supporting the MDF and ensure that the country is properly safe guarded.
“It takes sacrifice and courage to be a soldier. As government we promise not to abandon you on the battlefield. We will continue to attend to necessary efforts to improve your welfare,” he said
He said the country shall continue to remember the 22 soldiers who died along the way and asked the country to continue praying for two people who are still battling for survival at Mzuzu hospital.
Mutharika further said part of the efforts to address housing challenges the housing construction project would commence in January 2017.
Two recruits, Morris Maseko and Ethel Phulusa were awarded for their outstanding performance throughout the training.
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