By Burnett Munthali
On the afternoon of Wednesday, January 9, 2025, a deeply moving moment occurred during a whistle-stop tour led by His Excellency Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika. As the convoy made its way through a bustling crowd that had gathered to greet the former First Couple, an unexpected and heartfelt scene unfolded.
Amid the cheering and waving, a young girl’s voice suddenly rose above the crowd. The child, overcome with excitement and emotion, began calling out the name of Madame Professor Getrude Mutharika. Her cries, filled with pure admiration, carried a tone so sincere that they immediately caught Madame Mutharika’s attention.
Noticing the girl’s heartfelt plea, Madame Mutharika gently asked for the convoy to stop. Stepping out of her vehicle with grace and humility, she made her way toward the child, who stood anxiously among the crowd. As Madame Mutharika approached, the young girl’s face lit up with a mixture of joy and disbelief, her eyes brimming with tears.
Without hesitation, Madame Mutharika knelt down and extended her arms, pulling the girl into a warm and loving embrace. The child clung tightly to Madame Mutharika, as though finding solace in the arms of a mother. The crowd fell silent for a moment, visibly moved by the genuine connection between the former First Lady and the young girl.
Madame Mutharika spoke softly to the child, asking for her name and listening attentively as the girl shared her thoughts. The sincerity in their interaction touched everyone present, turning what was meant to be a political engagement into an intimate and unforgettable moment of love and humanity.
As Madame Mutharika stood up to return to her vehicle, the crowd erupted in cheers, celebrating her compassion and motherly spirit. The young girl, still beaming with happiness, waved her small hand as Madame Mutharika smiled back warmly.
This touching incident was a powerful reminder of Madame Mutharika’s enduring humility and her ability to connect with the people of Malawi, regardless of their age or status. For those who witnessed it, the moment was a testament to the profound impact of small acts of kindness, proving once again why she remains a beloved figure in the hearts of many Malawians.
