By Burnett Munthali
Some Malawians have expressed contrasting views on the continued commemoration of Kamuzu Day and the legacy of the country’s founding president, Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda.
While a section of the population believes the day has lost its original meaning due to increasing political interference, others view it as an opportunity to reflect on the progress the country has made since the fall of the one-party regime.
Lilongwe-based Arnold Samuel expressed disappointment, stating that Malawi has failed to achieve the vision of Dr. Banda.
He pointed to the prevailing economic turmoil and rising lawlessness as indicators that the country has strayed from the principles laid out by the first President.
According to Samuel, the leadership vacuum and lack of direction highlight a betrayal of Kamuzu’s dream of a self-reliant and orderly nation.
Similarly, Sean Banda observed that the Kamuzu Day commemorations have turned into mere political gatherings rather than solemn national reflections.
He argued that political actors now use the event to advance party agendas rather than to honor the legacy of the man who laid the foundation of modern Malawi.
This, he said, risks diluting the historical and cultural significance of the day.
In contrast, Amiston Saka from Mzuzu expressed optimism that the current administration would revamp Kamuzu Day and restore its deeper national meaning.
Saka said he believes that with renewed commitment, the day can once again serve as a unifying occasion for all Malawians to reflect on the values of discipline, unity, and patriotism.
As Kamuzu Day continues to be marked annually on May 14, these divergent opinions underscore an ongoing national debate about how best to honor Malawi’s founding father.
While some call for reforms to remove political overtones, others remain hopeful that the day can evolve into a genuine celebration of Malawi’s journey since independence.
In the end, how Malawians choose to commemorate Kamuzu Day may determine how future generations interpret the legacy of Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda.
