Mia demands an apology from DPP over anti-Muslim remarks

Business tycoon Muhammad Sidik Mia who is also Malawi Congress Party (MCP) member has demanded an apology from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) over remarks uttered by its Eastern Region governor attacking the Muslims in the country.

DPP governor Julius Paipi is alleged to have said that Islam is evil and voting for Malawi Congress Party (MCP) with Sidik Mia inside is like voting for war in 2019.

The remarks angered the party’s campaign director in Mangocho Wellington Mangulenje who tendered his resignation on Sunday.

Writing on his official facebook page, Mia expressed shock over the remarks and demanded an apology.

“For instance, Dr Bakili Muluzi is a Muslim. He was head of State for two consecutive terms. Did he cause war in the country?” queried Mia
He added: “Muslims are tolerant of other religions.

“I am working so comfortably with President Dr Chakwera, himself a Christian.

“You may wish to note that I even attend Christian gatherings when invited for their fundraising events and/or other important Christian ceremonies. The same applies to our Christian brothers and sisters, they equally attend our important functions when we invite them.

“We, Muslims and Christians, live peacefully together and we must not allow misguided individuals such as Hon Pipe to sow seeds of hatred and discord in our country.

“We say no to such childish, divisive and irresponsible remarks from DPP through their senior official Mr Pipe.”

Mia hailed Mangulenje for resigning over the attack.

“I therefore applaud DPP’s Mangochi District Campaign Director, Hon. Wellington Mangulenje for resigning from the party because of such unfortunate remarks from his boss Pipe.

“We hope that DPP will officially apologies to all Muslims in the country for this insult and failure to do so shall mean DPP’s official position regarding the way they view Muslims is as communicated by their senior official Hon Julius Pipe, that Muslims are war mongers,” he said.

When contacted for comment DPP spokesperson Francis Kasaila said the party is investigating the matter.