High Court Judge Justice Zione Ntaba has called on authorities to establish stronger measures to protect elderly people from abuse and violence.
Justice Ntaba made the remarks during a discussion on the Pakachere Awareness Podcast with the Malawian UK Nurses Association (MUNA), which focused on the rights and welfare of older persons.
She emphasized that elderly people have the same rights as everyone else and deserve dignity, respect, and protection. She also urged the government to introduce policies aimed at safeguarding older persons from abuse.
According to Justice Ntaba, many elderly people suffer different forms of abuse, including accusations of witchcraft, physical assault, and even murder. She stressed that such acts are unlawful, noting that every individual has a constitutional right to life.
The judge further highlighted the need for public awareness on the dangers and injustice of abusing elderly people, saying those involved in such acts must be held accountable.
Justice Ntaba also warned that individuals who record or take photographs while an elderly person is being abused may also be committing an offense and can face arrest and prosecution.
Additionally, she called on the Ombudsman’s Office, particularly the department responsible for handling complaints in hospitals, to investigate cases of mistreatment experienced by elderly people when seeking medical care.
She reiterated that accusing someone of witchcraft is a criminal offense and reminded the public that the Constitution protects every person’s right to life.
“Churches and traditional leaders should educate communities on the harmful effects of abusing elderly people so that this practice can be eliminated in the country,” she said.
Commenting on the issue, Gladstone, President of the Malawian UK Nurses Association Charity, said that protecting elderly people is a collective responsibility and should not be left to individual families alone.
He emphasized the need for stronger enforcement of laws protecting older persons.
Gladstone revealed that research indicates that since 2015, more than 300 elderly people in Malawi have been brutally killed after being accused of witchcraft.
He added that the discussion was organized in preparation for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, commemorated annually on June 15.
Other participants in the discussion included Sarah Kamkosi Khulumula and Tidziwe Malinki, both members of the Malawian UK Nurses Association.
