Homeland Security Minister Ezekiel Ching’oma has questioned the absence of opposition political parties from the National Service of Worship held on Saturday, marking the spiritual start to Malawi’s 6 July Independence Day celebrations.
The event, hosted at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC), drew dignitaries from across the country, including President Lazarus Chakwera, senior government officials, cabinet ministers, and religious leaders. Notably, only one opposition figure—People’s Development Party (PDP) president Kondwani Nankhumwa—was in attendance.
Ching’oma, who also chairs the Independence Day Organising Committee, stressed the inclusive nature of the event and said the absence of opposition party leaders raised serious questions.
“We invited everyone,” Ching’oma told reporters after the service. “People came from various denominations and regions to worship together. For those who didn’t attend, perhaps they should be asked why they chose not to be part of this important national occasion.”
The minister underscored the service as the first official event in a series of Independence Day activities, which continue Sunday at the Bingu National Stadium.
“Tomorrow we hold the main celebration,” he said. “Gates open at 5 a.m., and we expect a crowd of around 35,000 Malawians.”
Reverend Professor Billy Gama, Chairperson of the Malawi Council of Churches, led the interdenominational service. In his remarks, he urged unity across political, regional, and religious divides.
“As a nation, we face numerous challenges—economically, socially, and otherwise,” Rev. Gama said. “The solution is not political fragmentation but turning to God with one voice. He does not look at tribe, background, or status. Only through unity can we see true transformation.”
This year’s Independence Day commemorations will also feature Botswana’s President Duma Gideon Boko as Guest of Honour. The festivities will conclude with a friendly football match between Malawi and Botswana at Bingu National Stadium.
