Hero of the Nation

Masauko Chipembere was an important and controversial figure in a controversial period of Malawi's history. This books aims to contribute to a better understanding of Chipembere in Malawi and abroad. Writing in exile, he presents his own version of his life, which always links to the wider context of events, and is thus also the story of a nation in change. The autobiography includes chapters on the experience of the civil service and race discrimination; the effects of a missionary upbringing; the struggle for independence; and key public and parliamentary speeches. In a story that has only been allowed to circulate freely in Malawi recently, Chipembere recounts how the search for a politcal Messiah in the figure of Banda, and the final break with Banda unleashed personal and family tragedy as well as a nation's tragedy.