By Burnett Munthali
President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera and the First Lady, Madame Monica Chakwera, led thousands of mourners in paying their last respects to the late Joyce Chitsulo.
The solemn ceremony took place at Mpeni Village, Thambani in Mwanza, the home area of the departed leader.
Until her untimely death on Friday, Joyce Chitsulo served as the Deputy Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture.
She was also the sitting Member of Parliament for Mwanza West Constituency.
Her death has left a deep void in both local governance and national leadership.
Representing the President at the funeral, Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda, delivered a heartfelt tribute.
He reflected on Chitsulo’s life, her public service, and her unwavering commitment to the people she represented.
Chimwendo Banda praised the late Deputy Minister for her outstanding dedication to both her constituency and Malawi at large.
He expressed gratitude to President Chakwera for standing by Chitsulo from the moment of her tragic accident up to the time of her passing.
This, he said, was a clear sign of how much the President valued her as an individual and as a national asset.
“You appointed her after realising her patriotism and hard work in serving the nation,” said Chimwendo Banda.
“We had a woman who was always there to serve her area and the nation,” he added.
He emphasized that Chitsulo’s leadership was marked not by self-interest, but by a genuine desire to uplift others.
“She has left a legacy, and we will remember her,” he declared solemnly.
Chitsulo’s passing has been described as a major loss to both her constituents and the country as a whole.
Her work ethic, humility, and selflessness were attributes that won her admiration from across the political divide.
In her role as Deputy Minister, she played a key part in advancing the government’s development agenda, especially in matters of local governance and cultural preservation.
For the people of Mwanza West, Joyce Chitsulo was more than just a representative—she was a daughter, a leader, and a source of inspiration.
Many mourners, including traditional leaders, fellow parliamentarians, civil servants, and ordinary citizens, came out in large numbers to bid her farewell.
The presence of the President and First Lady at the funeral sent a powerful message of solidarity and respect.
It reminded Malawians of the importance of valuing those who serve with integrity and commitment.
As the nation continues to mourn, Joyce Chitsulo’s legacy will remain etched in the hearts of those she served.
Her life, though cut short, stands as a testament to the values of public service, humility, and national unity.
Malawi has lost a true servant of the people—but her example will continue to guide future generations.
