MALAWI: Human Rights Lawyer Calls For Protective Measures Amid Death Threats

By Smile Hamilton, Malawi.

Human rights lawyer Alexius Kamangila has urged the government and security agents to take immediate action to protect his legal team, who have received death threats.

Kamangila’s concerns were sparked by the safety risks faced by his lawyer, Gift-Dick Chimowa, who represented him in a high-profile case involving allegations of corruption against High Court Commercial Division Judge Justice Kenan Manda.

Kamangila emphasized the need for swift action, stating, “… they should not wait for more property or indeed life to be lost.”

He also expressed his priority in identifying people who can lead the way forward in the case.

Reverend Baxton Maulidi, ambassador for the All-African Conference of Churches (AACC), echoed Kamangila’s sentiments, calling on the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) to prioritize the protection of whistleblowers and ensure accountability for all suspects.

However, both the ACB spokesperson, Egrita Ndala, and the government spokesperson, Moses Kunkuyu, declined to comment on the matter, with Kunkuyu stating that he needs to consult further.

The development raises concerns about the safety of human rights defenders and whistleblowers in Malawi.

Kamangila’s case has sparked widespread attention, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations.

The incident also highlights the need for robust protection mechanisms for individuals who report corruption and other forms of wrongdoing.

The government and law enforcement agencies must take concrete steps to ensure the safety and security of these individuals.

As the situation unfolds, human rights organizations and advocates are closely monitoring developments, calling for a swift and thorough response to the death threats and allegations of corruption.