The Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB) has called on newly elected Catholic Members of Parliament (MPs) to demonstrate unwavering dedication in serving the people who entrusted them with the mandate to represent them in the National Assembly.
The call was made by Bishop Alfred Chaima of the Zomba Diocese on Wednesday during a special Eucharistic Mass held in Lilongwe to officially welcome and bless the new MPs before they begin their parliamentary duties.
In his message, Bishop Chaima emphasized that the legislators should remain grounded in the realities and daily struggles faced by the communities that voted them into office.
He urged them to always place the welfare of the people at the centre of their decision-making, noting that many Malawians are grappling with socio-economic challenges that require committed and compassionate leadership.
“The people who elected you are facing numerous hardships. As you deliberate and make decisions in Parliament, always remember the needs, concerns, and aspirations of those who entrusted you with this responsibility,” said Bishop Chaima.
He further reminded the MPs that as Catholics, their faith should guide them in how they conduct themselves and in the positions they present in the August House. Bishop Chaima stressed that the Church’s social teachings offer valuable principles that can help leaders promote justice, peace, and the common good.
“You must recognise that before anything else, you are Catholics. Let the teachings of the Church guide your actions and the views you express in Parliament,” he added.
Speaking during the same event, one of the legislators, Patricia Kaliati, pledged to give her utmost dedication in serving the people who entrusted her with the responsibility of representing them.
Kaliati said she is aware of the expectations citizens have from their leaders, and assured the faithful that she will work tirelessly to address the challenges affecting her constituents and the nation at large.
By Monica Chinyama Lipiya
