I don’t regret joining politics – Rev Chakwera, Malawi opposition leader

Leader of opposition in parliament and Malawi Congress Party (MCP) president Reverend Dr Lazarus Chakwera says he does nto regret joining front-line politics after resigning as president of the Malawi Assemblies of God.

He argues that religion does not exist in a vacuum and that as political leader he serves the people.

“I never regret following what I believe to be my Master’s leading in my life. I bear God’s light and I am determined to let it shine even in the darkest moments the world of mainstream politics may come up with at any given point in time,” says Chakwera.

His comments were attributed in an interview published by Nation newspaper.

“I am a servant of God and a servant of God’s people. I believe in servant leadership and a better Malawi for all is possible and also believe in nothing for us without us,” said Chakwera.

Asked about his views on leading a party which has some infighting, Chakwera responded by saying: “We are human beings with various political and personal ambitions. In a truly democratic environment, we can all thrive based on our competencies, charisma and, most importantly, character.

“ Before I can lead I must be a good follower. I sought God’s leadership then and I still seek His leadership as I face the future. I can trust God through Jesus Christ who has been to the future, to lead me and give me wisdom which I cannot get anywhere else.”

Chakwera is among  many men of God who have taken part in politics, people such as Bishop Desmond Tutu in South Africa, Reverend Jesse Jackson in America and on the local scene we have Reverend John Chilembwe, Reverend Peter  Kaleso, Reverend Dr Dumbo Lemani, Reverend Pat Banda and Reverend Professor David Mphande  a former lecturer of Old Testament studies and anthropology at Mzuzu University who also joined politics to become Member of Parliament (MP) for Nkhata Bay South East.

Charles Gwengwe, in a published letter, defended Chakwera’s decision to join active politics by drawing parallel to the biblical Daniel who, he said, influenced change in the Kingdom of Babylon where Israelites were being held after their exile.

He said God might be raising modern-day Daniels to transform communities.

Garnet Kibombwe, a student at the African Bible University of Uganda, also backed Chakwera and all Christians vying for political positions.

“First of all, politics was instituted by God. Apostle Paul in Romans 13:1-7 highlights the need to submit to the governing authority on the basis that every authority has been established by God. Can God establish something dirty as some people put it?

“The move by Chakwera to join politics is a very welcome idea. I urge Malawians to support him. I also encourage Christians who are called by God in politics to join the band wagon of Chakwera so that they can change the rotten political world.

“Those who are not called in politics should support those who are showing interest in politics. The support must be in terms of encouragement, prayer, constructive advice and voting for them,” said Kibombwe.