Chiefs asked to stay away from politics

Political Commentator, Latim Matenje, said it is crucial that Chiefs stay away from frontline politics because they serve people of different political tastes.

According to Matenje, Chiefs should concentrate on their roles and other duties assigned to them.

“It is imperative that Chiefs should only concentrate on the advisory role to government and the opposition on issues that need their input”, he said.

He further said it is a personal decision on the part of the chiefs, to fight the temptation from politicians, if they want to remain relevant to their subjects.

Matenje observed that when chiefs are involved in politics, they fail to discharge their duties independently, leading to violence.

“Some people resort to violence when they feel their grievances are not well solved. So it is my prayer that our local leaders who are already deep in politics, will think reverting their decision,” he added.

In the past years, Malawi has witnessed scenarios whereby Chiefs have there political affiliations and make campaigns for a certain party and candidate and even burning other political candidates from making campaigns in their areas.

Matenje has since asked Chiefs to work with any party during this campaign period for coming fresh presidential elections.