AFORD President Enock Chihana commended President Chakwera for withdrawing troops from DRC following the death of three Malawian soldiers. He emphasized the need for constitutional compliance in military deployments and warned against unauthorized actions. Chihana honored the fallen soldiers and stressed their significance to the nation.
Enock Kanzingeni Chihana, President of the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), has praised President Lazarus Chakwera for the decision to withdraw Malawian troops from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This acknowledgment is notable given their historically contentious political relationship, highlighting a shared commitment to national security and the safety of Malawi’s soldiers.
The troop withdrawal occurred following the tragic deaths of three Malawian soldiers caused by M23 rebels, emphasizing the need for a more cautious approach to international military engagements. Chihana voiced that the government must comply with legal protocols when sending soldiers abroad for peacekeeping duties.
According to Section 160 (1) (d) of the Malawi Constitution, any deployment of the Malawi Defense Force (MDF) outside the country exceeding 90 days requires prior approval from the National Assembly. Chihana warned that future military actions must strictly adhere to these constitutional mandates to avoid violations.
Chihana expressed condolences for the fallen soldiers and paid tribute to their families. He emphasized the invaluable contributions of these heroes, urging the nation to remember them as vital parts of their communities, who have left behind grieving families.
The context of this article revolves around the political landscape in Malawi, specifically the relationship between the ruling and opposition parties regarding military engagements abroad. Chihana’s commendation is particularly significant following a tragic event that raised concerns over the safety and legalities involved in deploying soldiers for international missions, thus sparking a national conversation around military ethics and constitutional adherence.
Chihana’s unexpected praise of President Chakwera reflects the necessity of prioritizing military personnel’s safety and constitutional compliance in military deployments. His call for legal adherence indicates a commitment to uphold national sovereignty while honoring the sacrifices made by soldiers in conflict zones. Ultimately, this situation establishes a precedent for future military decisions in Malawi.
Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com
