• Hon Deputy Minister, Jappie Mhango, M.P.
• The Chairman of the Commonwealth Ex-Service League of Malawi (CELOM) and all Executive Members of CELOM here present
• Dr. M.P. Magwira, Secretary for Defence
• General I.E.J. Maulana, Malawi Defence Force Commander
• Officers, men and women from Malawi Defence Force
• Invited Guests
• Members of the Press
• Ladies and Gentlemen
It gives me great pleasure to be here this afternoon to preside over this auspicious occasion of 2014 Poppy Day Inauguration Ceremony.
Indeed from today in remembrance of the noble and gallant fallen heroes of the first and second wars, we will proudly wear the red poppy. Red is the colour of blood as well as sacrifice. This is also reflected on the colour of our Malawian flag. It is thus with great pleasure and pride that today I lead Malawians and encourage them to do something in support of the war veterans as symbolized by the poppy flowers.
As we have worn the red poppy since 1921, this implies that we should not take peace for granted because throughout most of the human story, the norm for most of mankind has been war and suffering. It is for this reason that I commend CELOM members and all people of goodwill who have continuously given moral and general support to the war veterans in Malawi.
At certain times, war is the price of securing the peace we deserve. We shall therefore remember the fallen who gave their lives to answer the call of peace. Their names shall always be glorified and their souls shall strengthen our strife for peace.
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, with these few remarks, I officially inaugurate the 2014 Poppy Day.
