The Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi (APAM) has turned down an invitation to meet President Peter Mutharika to discuss issues surrounding persons with albinism.

On Tuesday the Chief Secretary to the Government Lloyd Muhara, issued a statement that Mutharika was expecting to meet leadership of APAM and other key stakeholders to discuss the ongoing abduction and killing of people with albinism.

“It has pleased the president of the Republic of Malawi His Excellency Professor Peter Mutharika to meet the leadership of APAM as well as key stakeholders on 27 February at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe to discuss and address challenges faced by persons with albinism,” reads part of the statement.

But a press statement released by APAM president Overstone Kondowe on Tuesday said while appreciating the gesture by Mutharika, the association will proceed with its petition to the president.

“The association is maintaining its position as regards the vigils to be held at Kamuzu Palace from 6 to 8 March 2019,” reads the statement in part.

APAM further said it expects the government to seriously consider the fast tracking the conclusion of cases regarding attacks on persons with albinism.

The association demanded the immediate implementation of the National Action Plan which was adopted in 2018 which is failing to be implemented due to in availability of funding.

APAM also asked the immediate creation of a commission of inquiry to probe the nature and scope of attacks against persons with albinism.