How ‘everyone’ ran for their lives when Lilongwe vendors were on a rampage
Chaos erupted in Lilongwe as angry vendors pelted stones at cabinet ministers who were addressing them on concerns over the rising costs of commodities they sell.
The vendors had marched to Parliament to deliver their grievances, arguing that wholesale prices for second-hand clothes had become unbearable, making it difficult for them to sustain their businesses.
They demanded urgent intervention from Capital Hill.
Upon arrival, they were met by a heavy security presence, which blocked them from entering the Parliament premises.
After some time, government officials stepped forward to address their concerns.
First to speak was Minister of Trade Sosten Gwengwe, who announced a government crackdown on foreign second-hand clothes dealers.
“We have resolved to revoke licenses of all second-hand clothes traders who are not from Malawi,” Gwengwe declared, a statement that drew mixed reactions from the crowd.
Watch the video: Government revokes work permits for foreign-owned Kaunjika Cleaning Businesses
Following him, Local Government Minister Richard Chimwendo Banda took the podium, attempting to reassure the vendors.
“The forex challenges affecting this sector will soon be a thing of the past. Government is working tirelessly to stabilize the situation,” he said.
However, his speech was abruptly cut short as angry vendors started hurling stones at the officials. Panic ensued, forcing everyone—including government officials, journalists, and bystanders—to flee for safety.
After some time, tensions eased, and the vendors agreed to a closed-door meeting. Ministers Moses Kunkuyu (Information) and Owen Chomanika (Natural Resources) joined the discussions, assuring the vendors that the government was committed to addressing their concerns.
Watch the video here for more: Ministers, others stoned at Parliament
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