By Burnett Munthali
The family of former President, late Professor Bingu wa Mutharika, says this year’s annual memorial event will be held on April 5, 2025, at his Mpumulo wa Bata Mausoleum, Ndata Farm in Thyolo.
A family member, Arthur Masamba, told Zodiak Online that preparations are underway to maintain the mood of the previous events as there will be no special changes.
For years after Bingu’s death in April 2012, the family has been in the lead to immortalize his life, a development that has attracted calls for the government to co-organize the event since the former president was a national figure.
Many Malawians believe that Bingu wa Mutharika played a significant role in the country’s economic transformation during his presidency, a factor that continues to influence calls for government involvement in his memorial services.
Despite these calls, the family has remained steadfast in handling the event independently, ensuring that the ceremonies maintain a personal and private touch rather than becoming a state-organized function.
Culture and traditions analyst, Aupson Ndabazake Thole, hailed the family for the event, insisting that the government should not join the arrangement which may be deemed political, but rather incorporate late Bingu and others on a special day for the heroes.
Thole’s argument aligns with concerns that if the government were to take over, the memorial could be politicized, given Bingu’s legacy and the impact of his leadership on Malawi’s political landscape.
On this, Ministry of Local Government, Unity, and Culture spokesperson, Anjoya Mwanza, asked for more time before commenting.
The government’s hesitation to make a clear stance on its role in the memorial event further highlights the complexity surrounding the legacy of the late president.
However, from 2022, the family has been reluctant to give a go-ahead for the government to take over the care of his mausoleum.
This reluctance has sparked debates on whether a former head of state’s final resting place should be maintained by the state or left in the hands of the family.
Some analysts argue that since Bingu was a national leader, the government should be responsible for his mausoleum, just as it does with other past presidents.
Others, however, support the family’s stance, stating that since Bingu’s legacy is both political and personal, his relatives should have the final say in how his memorial is handled.
As the memorial event approaches, discussions will likely continue on the best way to honor Bingu’s contributions while balancing family wishes and national recognition.
Regardless of these debates, the April 5, 2025, event is expected to draw political figures, dignitaries, and supporters who still admire Bingu wa Mutharika’s leadership and vision for Malawi.
