By Burnett Munthali
As Malawi prepares for the pivotal 2025 general elections, a new development has emerged that blends remembrance with subtle political messaging. The Catholic Church has released its 2025 calendar, featuring images of Dr. Saulos Chilima, Malawi’s former Vice President, and eight other victims of the tragic Chikangawa Forest plane crash that occurred on June 10, 2024.
The crash, which claimed the lives of prominent figures, has left an indelible mark on the nation. Dr. Chilima’s untimely demise, in particular, continues to resonate deeply across Malawi’s political and social spheres. By dedicating its calendar to the victims, the Catholic Church appears to be sending a poignant message that goes beyond mere commemoration.
The Catholic Church in Malawi is historically known for its advocacy on social justice, governance, and human rights issues. Often described as the “voice of the voiceless,” the Church has, in the past, issued strong pastoral letters and taken bold stances during times of national crises. The release of this calendar reflects the Church’s continued commitment to addressing societal issues, even in sensitive times.
In Catholic circles, it is often said, “Bishops samaphwekesa akanyasidwa,” loosely translated to mean that bishops do not hold back when they are provoked or challenged. This calendar appears to be more than a tribute—it serves as a reminder of the loss of key national figures and raises questions about governance, accountability, and leadership leading up to the 2025 elections.
The inclusion of Dr. Chilima’s image, alongside other victims, highlights the gravity of the loss. As the nation gears up for elections, the calendar may prompt citizens to reflect on the legacy of those who perished and the direction the country is taking. The symbolism is not lost on many, as Dr. Chilima had been a prominent figure in Malawi’s political landscape, advocating for reform and transparency.
The calendar has sparked a mix of emotions across the country. Some view it as a timely reminder of the sacrifices made by those who sought to improve the nation, while others see it as a subtle critique of the current state of governance.
“I think the Church is reminding us that we have lost great leaders and that we need to vote wisely in 2025,” said a Zomba resident.
However, critics argue that the Church might be wading too deeply into political matters. “This could be seen as the Church influencing public opinion ahead of elections,” remarked a political analyst.
The Chikangawa plane crash remains a subject of intense scrutiny. Investigations into the cause of the crash have yet to provide conclusive answers, leaving many Malawians demanding accountability. By keeping the memory of the victims alive, the Catholic Church may also be calling for justice and transparency regarding the incident.
As the road to 2025 unfolds, the Catholic Church’s calendar serves as both a memorial and a wake-up call. It challenges Malawians to reflect on their choices, leadership, and the values that will shape the nation’s future.
The calendar’s bold statement underscores the enduring influence of the Church in Malawi’s socio-political landscape, reminding the nation that its leaders, past and present, will always be held to account by the people and their faith.
