Chakwera demands preliminary report on Lilongwe protest violence
Violence marred recent demonstrations in Lilongwe. Photo credit: Jacob Nankhonya
President Lazarus Chakwera has directed state security agencies to act swiftly in restoring calm and investigating the violence that marred recent demonstrations in Lilongwe.
He expects a preliminary report on the matter from the Ministers of Homeland Security and Defense upon his return to Malawi.
In a statement released while he is on an official visit to Nigeria, President Chakwera expressed deep concern over the violent scenes that unfolded during the protests held in the capital.
He said the findings in the report will guide government’s next steps to prevent similar incidents in the lead-up to the upcoming general elections.
“I will be expecting a preliminary report on findings from both the Ministers of Homeland Security and Defense upon my return, which will form the basis of further actions we will take to ensure this does not happen again and that the 80 days between now and Election Day are peaceful and violence-free,” reads part of the statement.
Chakwera condemned both the violence and the destruction of property that occurred during the demonstrations, calling them “totally unacceptable” and warning that they have no place in Malawi’s democracy.
“The right of Malawians to protest peacefully is not only enshrined in the Constitution, but also a birthright,” he said.
He also ordered relevant state agencies to act decisively and ensure that all perpetrators are held accountable.
“In the meantime, let us each remain vigilant against those who seek to use our right to protest as an occasion to perpetrate violence and lawlessness for political gain,” Chakwera added.
The President further urged citizens not to allow such acts to derail the country’s efforts towards rebuilding and maintaining peace during this politically sensitive period.
His remarks come amid public outcry and strong condemnation from human rights organizations, including the Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC), which has also called out the police for their inaction during the attacks on peaceful protesters.
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