Bishop Mtumbuka Challenges Christians to Maintain Peace in their Societies
By Ignatius Mvula
Bishop Martin Mtumbuka has challenged Catholic Christians in Karonga Diocese to keep peace in their families and in turn their societies. The Bishop made these remarks at Lughali Zone under St Marys Parish after the Eucharistic Celebration marking the Nativity of the Lord on 25th December, 2017.
Bishop Mtumbuka reminded the congregation that the Solemnity of Incarnation is in itself a call to peace. He highlighted that Jesus humbled himself to share in our humanity to reconcile us to God and that we ourselves must learn to reconcile with one another.
“It is a real sign of bad leadership when husbands beat their wives, this must be stopped by all means.” Said Bishop Mtumbuka.
Turning to traditional leaders, the Bishop reminded them that their primary responsibility is to promote peace among their subjects and within their jurisdiction. He noted that it is sad that the people who are already under the veil of suffering because of so many challenges they face like hunger must at the same time suffer due to the effects of violent conflicts.
“As a Diocese we will do all that we can within our means to ensure that there is peace and tranquillity in this area” he added.
He called upon political leaders to help the people to maintain peace especially during the coming elections. He hinted that during last elections most of the people in Lughali area suffered because there was no peace during the elections.
Speaking at an earlier function which was also attended by the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Bishop called on Parliament to review the Chiefs Act in order to set order in the institution which is at the root of violent conflicts and suffering in the area.
He asked parliament to make it mandatory that all traditional leaders have well laid down succession plans to prevent chieftaincy wrangles. He bemoaned the tendency to resort to courts to obtain injunctions to resolve traditional matters.
The Bishop finally wished all the faithful a Happy Christmas.