By Burnett Munthali
The violent attack on the Maria Goretti Convent at Limbe Cathedral is a chilling reminder of the dangerous crossroads at which Malawi finds itself. Armed thugs, suspected to be linked to the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP), stormed a sacred space, leaving a security guard fighting for his life and traumatizing a group of nuns whose only crime was their service to God and community.
This barbaric act is not only criminal but utterly shameful. It points to the depths of moral decay and lawlessness that now pervade our society. If religious sanctuaries—symbols of peace and hope—can be attacked in such a manner, then no one is safe in today’s Malawi.
The timing of this assault cannot be viewed in isolation. Archbishop Thomas Luke Msusa’s bold sermon on Christmas Eve, in which he criticized the Chikangawa Commission of Inquiry report, drew the ire of government loyalists and MCP supporters. While it is not yet proven that this attack was a direct retaliation for the Archbishop’s remarks, the connection cannot be dismissed.
For years, the Catholic Church has been a moral compass in Malawi, speaking truth to power even in the face of threats. This attack, whether politically motivated or not, sends a dangerous message: dissenting voices, even those rooted in spiritual and moral duty, are not safe from harm.
What is most troubling is the silence from the ruling MCP. If these thugs are indeed linked to the party, where are the condemnations? Where is the accountability? By failing to address these allegations or denounce the attack, the MCP risks being complicit in fostering a culture of political thuggery and impunity.
This incident is not an isolated one. It reflects a broader pattern of intimidation and violence that has become a hallmark of Malawi’s political climate. The ruling party, if it values the principles of democracy and rule of law, must act swiftly to distance itself from such heinous acts and ensure the perpetrators face justice.
The attack on the convent is a microcosm of the greater challenges Malawi faces: rising lawlessness, a lack of accountability, and the erosion of moral values. It begs the question: What kind of nation are we becoming?
When sacred spaces are desecrated, and religious figures live in fear, we are teetering on the brink of societal collapse. This is not just an attack on the Catholic Church; it is an attack on the very soul of Malawi.
This heinous crime demands more than just words of condemnation—it requires decisive action.
Firstly, law enforcement must leave no stone unturned in identifying and prosecuting the attackers. Justice must be seen to be done, not only for the victims but for the nation as a whole.
Secondly, the ruling party must address the allegations linking it to this attack. Silence will only deepen the suspicion and tarnish its reputation further.
Thirdly, the government must take immediate steps to ensure the safety of all religious institutions and leaders. This includes increased security and a clear commitment to upholding freedom of religion.
Malawi cannot afford to descend further into chaos and division. This is a time for introspection and unity. Political leaders, religious figures, and citizens alike must come together to reject violence and champion the principles of peace, respect, and accountability.
The attack on the Maria Goretti Convent is a stain on our nation’s conscience. It is a test of our resolve as Malawians to defend what is right and condemn what is wrong. Let us not fail this test.
