Patricia Kaliati critiques the timing of youth engagement sessions concerning the State of the Nation Address, arguing for pre-SONA discussions to ensure youth concerns are included in policy-making. She highlights a recent incident where President Chakwera struggled to address youth questions, reflecting broader frustrations about youth exclusion in governance. Her call for earlier engagement underscores the need for more responsive government policies attuned to youth needs.
Patricia Kaliati has raised concerns regarding the schedule of youth engagement sessions in relation to the State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Malawi. She asserts that these meetings should occur prior to the President’s delivery of the SONA, thereby ensuring the inclusion of youth perspectives. Kaliati emphasizes that post-SONA discussions render youth contributions ineffective for shaping the outlined policies.
Furthermore, Kaliati draws attention to a recent engagement where President Lazarus Chakwera faced criticism from young participants at the State House. During this interaction, some attendees expressed their dissatisfaction by questioning his leadership effectiveness. Kaliati noted that Chakwera was unable to provide a satisfactory answer to this pivotal inquiry, signaling a disconnect between the youth and governmental authority.
Kaliati’s statements come amid escalating demands for the Malawi government to address the concerns of its youth. She argues that incorporating young individuals into discussions before the SONA would enhance the alignment of government initiatives with their needs. This discourse could potentially facilitate a more responsive governance framework that acknowledges youth contributions to national planning.
In conclusion, Patricia Kaliati’s critique of the timing of youth engagement in Malawi emphasizes the necessity of early inclusion of young voices in governmental discussions. Her observations during the President’s recent engagement highlight a troubling disconnect between the youth and the current administration. By advocating for pre-SONA dialogue, Kaliati aims to promote a more integrated approach to governance that acknowledges the needs and concerns of young people.
Original Source: malawi24.com
