MALAWI: Tension At Area 43 As MCP MPs Storm Chakwera’s Home Over Reported Police Arrest Attempt

By Smile Hamilton Malawi

Several Members of Parliament from the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) on Tuesday, rushed to the Area 43 residence of former President Lazarus Chakwera after receiving reports that police officers had allegedly gone there to arrest him.

The MPs, looking visibly concerned, said they were alerted by community members who claimed police vehicles had been seen circling the former president’s home since Monday evening.

“When we got the information, we felt obligated to come and see for ourselves what was taking place,” one of the legislators said.

“We have been told that officers have been moving around this area, and that alone raises questions,” he added.

According to the MPs, the suspected attempt to arrest Chakwera is believed to be connected to an ongoing case involving four German Shepherd dogs said to have been taken from Kamuzu Palace during the transition period when Chakwera vacated the official residence earlier this year.

Police are reportedly investigating claims that the dogs, which are considered State property, were moved without proper documentation.

Currently, former State Residences official Godfrey Arthur Jalale is answering charges in court relating to the same matter. However, the MPs argue that linking the former president to the case is politically motivated.

“We believe there is no basis to involve the former head of state in such an issue,” said another legislator. “This is why we came to ensure that due process is followed and there is no intimidation.”

By late afternoon, there was no visible police presence at the residence, and authorities had not yet issued an official statement on whether an arrest operation had been planned.

Meanwhile, security around Chakwera’s home has been tightened as supporters and concerned citizens continued gathering in small groups, awaiting clarity on the situation.