LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s National Advocacy Platform (NAP) has dared Malawi Police Service to arrest attackers on Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) members.
The call has been made following law enforcers’ silence on two political violence being advanced by overzealous Malawi Congress Party (MCP) cadres to other parties in Lilongwe.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, May 18, 2024 signed by NAP Chairperson Benedicto Kondowe demands immediate arrests of the violence instigators.
“The National Advocacy Platform (NAP) unequivocally condemns the recent political violence against
Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) supporters in Mponela on 17th May, 2024. This latest attack, allegedly by MCP functionaries, perpetuates the disturbing trend of political violence undermining our democracy. We reference our prior statement from 24th February 2024, addressing the brutal assault on Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) supporters at Mbowe Filling Station.
“The police must swiftly and thoroughly investigate the attacks on AFORD supporters in Mponela and the February 24th incident involving DPP supporters. Perpetrators must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted without delay,” demands Kondowe.
He observes, “Despite clear video evidence identifying perpetrators, no arrests have been made. This inaction is unacceptable and threatens our nation’s peace and democratic process. Political violence endangers lives, erodes democracy, and disrupts national harmony.
“As the 2025 elections approach, escalating violence risks destabilizing our country, fostering fear, and suppressing free expression and participation. Party leaders orchestrating anarchy must be held accountable for their actions, as they threaten our nation’s stability and democratic values”.
Kondowe adds, “The implications are profound: such violence creates fear, discourages civic participation, and undermines public confidence in law enforcement and the government’s ability to protect citizens and uphold the rule of law. Failure to act decisively against political violence signals dangerous impunity and a disregard for justice and democracy”.
NAP demands further, “The government must enhance security measures, especially in violence-prone areas, protect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and expression, publicly condemn all political violence, and commit to safeguarding democracy.
“All political parties and leaders must denounce violence, promote peace, tolerance, and respect for democratic principles, and engage in dialogue to prevent future incidents and ensure a peaceful electoral process”.
However, Malawi Congress Party (MCP) continues to dispute claims that the attackers are its members.
