Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiative (CDEDI), says it is still investigating the issue surrounding the Sports Minister, Ulemu Msungama’s trip to India despite the Minister giving his side of the story through a press briefing he held in Lilongwe on Tuesday.
Upon his return from India, Msungama, whose trip for medical checkup raised eyeballs, on Tuesday told journalists that he went to India for a knee surgery and that his medical bill was settled by a health insurance scheme, Masm while the air ticket and accommodation were paid by government.
During the presser, Msungama said: “I went to ACB Clinic (in Lilongwe) and then I was referred to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital for MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging). Then the images were taken to Doctor Kampondeni for interpretation and I was recommended to go for surgery.”
But speaking to YFM, CDEDI Executive Director, Sylvester Namiwa, said there are a lot of Malawians who are on a long list waiting to be referred outside the country for different treatments on serious cases than that suffered by the minister hence the need for investigations.
“We understand that issues of health are supposed to be private matters but Malawians developed a lot of interest on this particular case because the one involved is a public figure and a leader, therefore whatever these people are doing in their daily activities are of public interest.
“The other issue why this is attracting a lot of attention is that Malawi is burdened with cases of people suffering from cancer and other illnesses and are on a long list waiting to be referred to countries such as India for treatment like the one Mr. Msungama has enjoyed.”
He therefore wondered if the Minister’s privileged trip was justifiable hence the need for thorough investigations and CDEDI will soon issue a press statement to make their stand.
Just a few days ago, after the news about Msungama’s trip awash the social media, CIDED issued a communication saying it is monitoring the situation and will investigate the matter until the Minister makes an official statement to clear himself.
