Transformation Alliance says conference to proceed despite Chishimba, Malema no show

Political movement, Transformation Alliance (TA) has said despite Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) led government frustrating its efforts, it will proceed with its first ever national conference slated for Friday, August 25 in Blantyre.

 TA Publicity Secretary Leonard Chimbanga said this in reaction to government’s declaration that guest speakers at the event Zambian politician Saviour Chishimba and vocal South African politician Julius Malema are prohibited immigrants to Malawi.

Malema is the leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters in South Africa, which he founded in July 2013. He previously served as President of the African National Congress Youth League from 2008 to 2012.

While Chishimba, the whistle blower of the Malawi-Zambia maize procurement scam, is the leader of the United Progressive People in neighbouring Zambia.

They were billed as key speakers at the event to be held at St Plus Catholic Hall in Blantyre.

According to Chimbanga, the two nearly flew into the country on Thursday as they learnt of the declaration at the airports in their respective countries

Chimbanga could not tell the reason behind the declaration, saying the author (Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Grace Chiumia) is better placed to explain the reasons.

“We will peoceed with the conference and delegates are still trekking in. We invited guests within and beyond the borders. Barring them (Chishimba and Malema) from entering in the country does not mean the event will be cancelled.

“We included them on the list of speakers because we wanted them to share with us their success stories in as far as politics in concerned their countries,” said Chimbanga.

In a circular addressed to the Director of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB) Mr Medi and Mr Thodi of South African Airlines, Chiumia is advising the the Immigration Department and relevant officers not to allow Chishimba and Malema to enter in the country.

“Please note that in exercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 4 (1) of the Immigration Act, I declare the following persons to be prohibited immigrants to Malawi, namely Saviour Chishimba and Julius Malema.

“You are therefore directed to cause appropriate notices to be prepared and disseminated to them and relevant officers in order to restrict or refuse their entry in Malawi,” the notice signed by Chiumia.

Transformation Alliance was founded to fight against corruption and hold leaders to account.