DPP Press Release
The Democratic Progressive Party is horrified to learn that the Malawi Government has decided to indemnify the manufactures of the COVID-19 vaccine, from any harm that the vaccine may cause to Malawians. This has been done secretly, without consultation with Malawians. We strongly condemn this manner of dealing with the lives, health and welfare of Malawians.
We have not been provided with the exact and full terms of the indemnity. We therefore demand that such document of indemnity must be made public for all Malawians to appreciate its purpose and import.
As everyone is now aware, the COVID-19 vaccine is shouded in controversy. Its safety, especially to Africans, is suspect. This is perhaps why the manufacturers of the vaccine are demanding from obsequious governments such as the Malawi Government, assurances that they will not be liable if harm is caused to Malawians.
A Government that is accountable to its citizens cannot forego the rights of its citizens without fully informing its citizens of the implications of the indemnity, and without seeking informed acceptance by the citizens.
We are aware that for many generations, vaccines have proven to be an efficient way of addressing diseases. But we are also aware that some vaccines have caused irreparable harm to humans. Therefore, while a vaccine for COVID-19 may provide solutions, Malawi must be guided by scientific evidence of its safety. And if the first step the manufacturers are demanding is an indemnity, we must question their confidence in their vaccine.
We therefore demand that the Government must come clean on this matter. What do our scientists know about the vaccine? What assurances have we received that the vaccine is safe? What is the indemnity protecting the manufacturers from?
If Government does not provide a satisfactory explanation to Malawians within the next 7 days we, the Democratic Progressive Party, will seek the intervention of the courts to protect the lives and health of our citizens.
*Issued By: Honourable BJ Mpinganjira*
*Democratic Progressive Party Spokesperson*
