The Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR) has strongly condemned the violent incident that took place yesterday in the Mkhate and Livunzu areas of Chikwawa, where individuals attacked President Lazarus Chakwera’s motorcade. According to reports, the motorcade was targeted with stones, causing considerable damage to several vehicles, including Toyota Land Cruiser Prados and a Toyota Coaster. A police officer was also seriously injured in the attack.
The CHRR expressed grave concern over the violence, which is believed to have been triggered by allegations that Malawi Congress Party (MCP) supporters uprooted opposition party flags. The organization described the incident as deeply troubling and unacceptable, stressing that political disputes should not be settled through acts of aggression or intimidation.
CHRR also condemned the alleged uprooting of opposition flags by individuals wearing MCP regalia. It emphasized that such actions, regardless of the perpetrator’s political affiliation, undermine the principles of free and fair political engagement. The organization called for political disagreements to be handled respectfully and through dialogue, not hostility.
“Violence has no place in a democracy,” CHRR stated, warning that such incidents threaten public safety and the credibility of the upcoming 2025 general elections. It cautioned that continued acts of violence could create an environment of fear and intimidation, ultimately undermining Malawi’s democratic values.
CHRR urged the Malawi Police Service to conduct a swift, thorough, and impartial investigation into the attack, calling for those responsible to be identified and held accountable. The organization emphasized the need for transparency in the investigation process to maintain public trust in law enforcement and the broader security apparatus.
As the 2025 general elections approach, CHRR called on all Malawians to promote tolerance and respect for differing political views. It urged political leaders and citizens alike to engage in peaceful and constructive dialogue to resolve differences.
“Let us work together to ensure that our democratic processes are conducted in a peaceful and respectful manner, upholding the values of democracy and human rights,” CHRR stated.
The organization concluded by calling for a collective effort to foster a harmonious society where differences are resolved without resorting to violence, thereby safeguarding Malawi’s democratic integrity.
