Mtumbuka Urges Catholic Leaders in Public Office to Defend the Poor and Marginalised

August 6, 2026

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By Suleman Chitera

The President of the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB), Rt. Rev. Martin Mtumbuka, has called on Catholic leaders serving in government, public institutions and the private sector to remain faithful to the Church’s mission by championing the rights and welfare of the poor, vulnerable and marginalised members of society.

Speaking at the Annual Malawi Social Entrepreneurship and SMEs Conference and Expo under the Sisters’ Blended Value Project (SBVP) at Crossroads Hotel in Lilongwe, Bishop Mtumbuka said leadership should be viewed as an opportunity to serve those most in need rather than a means of acquiring privilege and influence.Mangochi salutes Bishop Mtumbuka for speaking justice

The Karonga Diocese bishop urged Catholic politicians, civil servants and business executives to uphold Christian values and integrity even after assuming positions of authority, stressing that public office carries a moral responsibility to promote justice, equality and compassion.

He noted that while the Catholic Church continues to complement government efforts through initiatives that support vulnerable communities, the primary responsibility for delivering quality social services and improving citizens’ welfare rests with the government.

Bishop Mtumbuka further challenged authorities to intensify efforts aimed at empowering women and girls, expanding access to education for disadvantaged communities and strengthening social protection programmes for the country’s most vulnerable people.Mathews Mtumbuka to contest as MP for Rumphi Central

The conference, held under the theme “Sustaining Impact in Social Enterprises and SMEs: Building Resilience in Finance and Market Readiness,” brought together religious leaders, policymakers, development partners, entrepreneurs and business stakeholders to discuss innovative strategies for strengthening social enterprises and enhancing the resilience of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Among the notable dignitaries who attended the event were Malawi’s Minister of Defence, Honourable Feston Kaunda, and Strathmore University Pro-Chancellor Rev. Dr. Silvano Ovhodho.Mtumbuka Pledges Law to Guarantee Varsity Slots for CDSS Learners

The gathering highlighted the growing role of faith-based organisations, government institutions and the private sector in fostering inclusive economic development, promoting entrepreneurship and creating sustainable opportunities that improve livelihoods across Malawi.