First Lady speaks tough against albino killings

First Lady Madam Gertrude Mutharika has called on women in the country to rise up and take action against the ongoing “shameful, heartless and barbaric attacks” against persons with albinism.

Speaking on Thursday at Kamuzu Palace during an audience with the leadership and members of the Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi (APAM), Madam Mutharika described the ongoing killings, abductions and maiming of persons with albinism as terror against all mothers who feel the most pain when their children are in pain.

She vowed to do everything possible as a mother and a citizen of this nation to ensure that the violence comes to an end.

“The fight against these ongoing killings, is my fight and a fight of all mothers.

“I want to assure you, we are together in this fight. Victory may seem to elude us at this moment, but my faith informs me that with God everything is possible. We just need to stand united, have the right frame of mind to employ the right strategies and actions. We shall surely overcome,” she said.

The First Lady the first ever Patron of Apam in June this year, following a request from the association.

APAM President Overton Kondowe explained that the association picked Madam Mutharika upon conviction of her ability to take up challenging responsibilities.

“Your acceptance to take up this position at this challenging time is a source of hope and joy for us,” said Kondowe.