Police taken to task on violence
Picture credit: Internet
Parliament has raised concerns over the Malawi Police Service’s silence on the rising cases of political violence, calling it worrisome.
Speaking on Wednesday during an interaction with Inspector General of Police Merlyne Yolamu, the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Defense and Security, Salim Bagus, expressed concern over the failure of law enforcement to act against escalating violence and the obstruction of demonstrations.
Bagus criticized the police for allowing armed individuals to attack people without making any arrests.
“These violent individuals come from political parties, but no one will admit to orchestrating the attacks. No political party will acknowledge having thugs,” Bagus said.
In response, Yolamu defended the police, stating that they are taking action and remain committed to maintaining law and order ahead of the September general elections.
“We will do our best with the strategies we have put in place to swiftly investigate cases of violence. We all want free and fair elections, but it is not just the police—political parties also have a responsibility to promote peaceful coexistence,” she said.
As the elections approach, isolated incidents of violence have been reported across the country. At Parliament, two vehicles belonging to female members of Parliament were tampered with.
About The Author
