By Smile Hamilton, Malawi.
The Malawi Palestine Solidarity Movement (MPSM) has strongly condemned the visit of Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel to Malawi, accusing the government of complicity in Gaza’s “genocide”.
In a statement signed by MPSM spokesperson Asaboni Phiri, the group described Haskel’s visit as “complicity in apartheid” amidst escalating violence in Gaza.
During her visit to Lilongwe, Haskel praised Malawi’s decision to open an embassy in Tel Aviv last year, describing it as a sign of bravery. However, the MPSM rejected her characterization of the conflict as a “clash of values”, calling it a cover for ethnic cleansing.
The group also warned against Haskel’s call for Malawi-Israel “unity”, alleging it risks importing Israel’s divisive politics into Malawi’s society.
“We will not be silenced,” the MPSM statement read. “We condemn Malawi’s government for backing a regime committing war crimes.” The group’s strong stance has sparked a heated debate about Malawi’s relations with Israel.
In response to the condemnation, government spokesperson Moses Kunkuyu dismissed the MPSM’s claims, citing Malawi’s five-decade-long bilateral relations with Israel and mutual benefits. Kunkuyu emphasized that Malawi’s government doesn’t run its affairs based on outsiders’ interests, but rather on its own needs and priorities.
The controversy surrounding Haskel’s visit has highlighted the complexities of Malawi’s foreign relations and the need for careful consideration of the country’s partnerships and alliances. As the situation continues to unfold, the MPSM’s voice is likely to remain a prominent one in the debate.
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