President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera, who is also the Commander In-Chief of the Malawi Defence Force (MDF), has called upon senior command and staff of the MDF to lead by the examples set by their superiors. 

Chakwera made the remarks on Friday during the graduation ceremony of the MDF senior command and staff in Salima district.

In his address, President Chakwera emphasized the importance of having examples and models to anchor, challenge, and ground individuals in their professional and personal lives. 

President Chakwera advised the newly graduated military personnel to consistently lead by the example of their superiors, portraying leadership as the parachute that ensures a safe landing when other measures fail. 

“If you want to succeed in your vocation as soldiers and put your training to good use, follow closely the noble examples of those that lead you, and lead those who come behind you by example,” said Chakwera.

Acknowledging that this philosophy may seem counter-cultural, President Chakwera emphasized the importance of having heroes and role models. 

He cautioned against the notion that the only hero worth having is oneself, stating that such a perspective is naive. 

The president urged the military leaders to embrace the rich heritage of noble and formidable examples, resisting any attempts to disregard this legacy. 

“To do so is to do harm to yourself by removing the nourishing roots from the tree of your life,” said Chakwera.