By Suleman Chitera
As the Muslim community in Malawi prepares for fresh elections within the Muslim Association of Malawi (MAM), voices within the community are increasingly calling for transparency, accountability, and leadership renewal.
Among those speaking out is community member Imran Jumbe, who has commended the civic group Muslims Concern for taking legal action to challenge the leadership status of MAM, describing their move as courageous and necessary for the integrity of the Muslim community.
Courage in Pursuit of Accountability
Jumbe said the decision by Muslims Concern to seek intervention from the courts demonstrated bravery and a commitment to justice within the Muslim Ummah.
According to him, raising concerns through lawful channels should not be interpreted as an act of division but rather as a step toward strengthening institutions that serve the Muslim community in Malawi.
“The history of Islam teaches us that leadership is a trust, not a possession,” Jumbe said, drawing lessons from early Islamic leadership traditions.
He cited the examples of Abu Bakr and Umar ibn al-Khattab, who emphasized accountability during their leadership. Abu Bakr, upon assuming leadership following the death of Prophet Muhammad, is famously recorded to have told the Muslim community: “If I do well, help me; if I do wrong, correct me.”
Similarly, Umar ibn al-Khattab encouraged members of the community to challenge him whenever he strayed from justice, an example Jumbe says should guide modern Muslim institutions.
Fresh Elections Seen as Opportunity for Reform
The legal challenge has opened the door for fresh elections within MAM, a development Jumbe believes presents an important opportunity to restore confidence in the organization’s leadership.
He urged the committee responsible for overseeing the elections to ensure the process is conducted with the highest standards of transparency, fairness, and neutrality.
“This responsibility is an amanah — a sacred trust,” he said, stressing that those managing the process must remember the spiritual and moral weight of their role.
Jumbe added that the credibility of the election process will determine whether the Muslim community regains trust in the institution.
Appeal for Leadership Renewal
In his remarks, Jumbe also made a direct appeal to Sheikh Idrisa Muhammad, urging him to reconsider contesting in the upcoming elections.
According to Jumbe, MAM has remained under the same leadership authority for nearly fifteen years, a period he claims has seen limited institutional growth and minimal development initiatives benefiting Muslims across the country.
He argued that the organization now requires new leadership with fresh ideas and renewed energy to revive its mission and programs.
“Our Muslim community needs renewal and fresh energy,” he said. “Leadership change should not be seen as a threat to unity but rather as a pathway to progress.”
Looking Ahead
Observers within the Muslim community say the upcoming elections will be critical in determining the future direction of MAM, an institution that plays a central role in representing Muslim interests and coordinating religious and social initiatives in Malawi.
For many, the moment represents more than a leadership contest — it is an opportunity to re-energize the organization and strengthen unity within the Muslim Ummah.
Jumbe concluded his remarks with a prayer that all those involved in the process act with sincerity, justice, and fear of God.
“May Allah guide everyone entrusted with this responsibility and grant the Muslim community leadership that will promote unity and bring meaningful progress,” he said.
