President Lazarus Chakwera says his administration will not stifle the church from speaking out in form of advice or caution to government whenever it deems fit.
He was speaking Sunday at Nkhoma Church of Central African Presbyterian (CCAP) congregation when he attended a Chichewa church service as part of his weekly program as a professing Christian.
In his address to the congregation after the service the President observed how CCAP Nkhoma Synod has collaborated with government in ensuring that Malawians get best social services in health and education among others.
“Let me assure you that we will not threaten churches when they speak out. Remember we all serve the same people whether we are politicians, religious and traditional leaders. As such, the Church has a right to speak to authorities on any matter that affects its flock. We will heed to your advice because we know you mean well just as you have been doing since 1891,” said the President.
He added that his administration will continue working with CCAP Nkhoma Synod and other churches to ensure that people’s rights are respected at all levels.
President Chakwera pledged that his administration will continue putting in place good policies so that churches and government cultivate a meaningful working partnership in serving the masses.
He then asked the Synod to become a conduit of information about government policies and to continue praying for Malawi’s current problems like climate change and effects of Covid 19.
Speaking earlier, moderator of the Synod, Reverend Phillip Kambulire said they will continue collaborating with government through provision of social services to Malawians.
The Synod runs renowned academic institutions like William Murray Secondary School, Mlanda Girls Secondary School and Nkhoma University among others. In the health sector Nkhoma Synod operates Nkhoma Mission Hospital which has renowned specialties in ophthalmology and oncology among other competencies.
The Synod father further promised the President of unceasing support in form of prayers for his government and the nation.
“We will continue praying for you because we know that a problem at government level is a problem to the whole nation including our members. We all serve the same people so we are inseparable when it comes to decision making, service delivery and managing people’s expectations and fears,” said he.
President Chakwera becomes the fourth Head of State to worship at the Mission congregation after founding President Kamuzu Banda, Dr Bakili Muluzi and Bingu wa Mutharika.