By Bishop Witmos

Mangochi, December 10, Mana: Vice President Dr Michael Bizwick Usi has asked citizens in the country to celebrate a significant milestone in the country's journey towards upholding human rights.

He was speaking at Mangochi Stadium on Tuesday, during the commemoration of 2024 International Human Rights Day, an event, which also coincided with the 25 years of human protection and promotion by the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC).

Dr Usi said Malawi's efforts in promoting and protecting the rights of all its citizens for the past 25 years is a journey, which has taken efforts by courageous and resilient human rights defenders around the world, hence the need to uphold it jealously.

“This day serves as a crucial reminder of the fundamental rights to us all. As we reflect on the state of human rights in Malawi, and around the world, we are reminded of the immense progress that has been made, as well as the significant challenges that remain amidst us,” he said.

Usi therefore emphasized the importance for Malawians to respect all human rights defenders who work tirelessly to promote and protect the rights of marginalized communities across the globe.

“As we celebrate this important day, let us remember the courage and resilience of human rights defenders around the world. These individuals, often in the face of great adversity, continue to fight for justice, equality and dignity for all,” he said.

The Vice President therefore urged stakeholders to continue upholding the principles of human rights, both at home and abroad.

In her remarks, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Malawi, Ms. Rebecca Addah-Dontoh, commended Malawi for its strides in upholding human rights for every citizen in the country.

She said this is witnessed through government commitment to uplifting livelihoods socially and economically, but also through strengthening the police in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) in the country.

“I am extremely excited to be part of Malawians in celebrating their rights today. This is a special and important occasion, where we are celebrating achievements that Malawi has registered for the past 25 years, for that I say congratulations,” she said.

The event was commemorated under the theme ‘our right, our future, right now.

Amongst participants at the event included the chairperson for the Malawi Human Rights Commission, Ms. Chikondi Chijozi, Representative of Human Rights Civil Society Organizations, Head of Mission for the Republic of Iceland to Malawi, Dr David Bisjarnason, as well as traditional authorities among others.