Member of Parliament for Rumphi Central Constituency, Engineer Matthews Mtumbuka, has called on religious leaders to take a leading role in addressing the rising cases of suicide in Rumphi, describing the trend as alarming and requiring urgent intervention.

Mtumbuka made the appeal during interdenominational prayer service held at Kanyerele in his constituency, where chiefs and religious leaders gathered to pray for the community, particularly young people who are said to be the most affected by suicide cases in the district.

He said faith leaders have an important responsibility to provide spiritual guidance and hope to people facing difficult circumstances, stressing that communities must work together to prevent further loss of lives.

Mtumbuka also encouraged young people to remain ambitious, engage in productive activities and surround themselves with people who inspire positive thinking instead of giving in to despair.

He described prayer as essential for the spiritual well-being of the community and thanked Dr. Mtumbuka for accepting to be the guest of honour.

He further urged the youth to remain prayerful and seek God’s guidance in their daily lives.Speaking during the event, Group Village Head Principle Mjuma said the prayer gathering was organised because of the growing concern over suicide cases in the area.

According to community leaders, Kanyerele has recorded four suicide cases in the past nine months, involving two young men and two traditional leaders, highlighting the urgent need for both spiritual and community-based interventions.