LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) along side Lost History Foundation, has petitioned the Malawi Parliament to begin using local languages particularly Chichewa during its deliberations, in a move aimed at promoting inclusivity and national identity.
Presenting the petition at Parliament Building in Lilongwe on Thursday, CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa emphasized that all parliamentary proceedings are meant for Malawians, the majority of whom communicate primarily in indigenous languages.
“Whatever transpires in Parliament is meant for the ordinary Malawian. It is therefore important that proceedings be conducted in a language that every citizen can understand,” said Namiwa.
He argued that introducing local languages such as Chichewa, Chitumbuka, and Yao in Parliament would help bridge the communication gap between lawmakers and the people they represent.
Namiwa noted that English, though an official language, often limits citizens’ understanding of national issues debated in the House.
The petition also calls for the translation of parliamentary documents, bills, and committee reports into local languages, enabling broader public participation in democratic processes.
He also calls for the local language inclusive in schools.
The petition has since been received by Member of Parliament for Zomba city North Bester Awali.
Awali commended the initiative, saying it would help them reach out to the local communities that voted for them.
He assured them that will present the petition to the Speaker’s office.
If adopted, Malawi would join other African nations such as Tanzania and South Africa that have incorporated local languages in parliamentary and official state business.
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