By Burnett Munthali
A shocking wave of controversy has engulfed Rumphi Teachers Training College (TTC) after a well-regarded lecturer, John Msokwa, was demoted and reassigned to Chikwawa Community Day Secondary School. His alleged crime? Suspected support for Peter Mutharika, leader of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
The controversy reportedly began with a WhatsApp conversation in the college’s staff group. Msokwa advised his colleagues to avoid political discussions after a fellow lecturer, allegedly an ardent supporter of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), posted politically charged messages.
“A screenshot of his message was shared with senior officials,” revealed an inside source. “It was interpreted as evidence of political bias, which eventually led to his demotion.”
Msokwa’s demotion has sparked outrage among students, who view him as one of the most capable music and arts tutors. On Friday afternoon, students staged protests, demanding his reinstatement and calling for disciplinary action against the lecturer who reported him.
“We want Munthali, the lecturer who betrayed Msokwa, removed and Msokwa restored by Monday,” said a visibly angry student during the protest. “If not, we’ll escalate our actions to make sure our concerns are heard.”
The students also highlighted other long-standing issues at the college, including unpaid training allowances, water shortages, and poor dietary conditions.
The district commissioner’s office acknowledged the protests and assured the students that their grievances would be forwarded to higher authorities. Efforts to reach the Ministry of Education spokesperson for comment were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
The incident has drawn parallels to past political interference in Malawi’s education sector. During Bingu wa Mutharika’s presidency, similar accusations surfaced, with university lecturers reportedly harassed for perceived affiliations with opposition parties.
Critics have decried Msokwa’s demotion as a violation of academic freedom. “This kind of interference undermines the integrity of education and sets a dangerous precedent,” remarked one commentator.
The public has largely condemned the politicization of educational institutions, emphasizing the need for a nonpartisan academic environment. “Education should be a neutral space where ideas are exchanged freely without fear of political repercussions,” one observer noted.
Msokwa’s demotion continues to draw widespread attention, with calls for an impartial investigation into the matter.
Photo credits: Rumphi Community Radio
