The Government of Malawi through Minister of Information, Tourism and Culture Kondwani Nankhumwa has quashed claims that recent appointment of the civil rights activists into the boards of statutory corporations is government’s mission to silence them.

Nankhumwa was reacting to a comment made by a political scientist at the Chancellor College of the University of Malawi Boniface Dulani.

Among the people who are believed to have been silenced by the new post are consumer right activist John Kapito, Human rights campaigner Billy Mayaya and Steve Duwa.

In his response, Nankhumwa said the inclusion of civil right activist in the various boards shows that the ruling DPP is an inclusive government.

“The move is not aimed at silencing anyone”, said Nankhumwa.

On his part, Billy Mayaya said the new post will not in any way compromise his duties as an activist.

Meanwhile it is yet to be seen how these activist included in the list will execute their duties.