By Smile Hamilton, Malawi
The quasi-religious governance watchdog, the Public Affairs Committee (PAC), has strongly condemned the Malawi Police Service (MPS) and the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) for failing to take action against panga-wielding thugs who violently disrupted a peaceful demonstration in Lilongwe earlier today.
In a strongly worded statement signed by PAC Chairperson Monsignor Patrick Thawale and Spokesperson Bishop Gilford Matonga, the committee described the attacks as “barbaric” and a clear violation of Malawi’s democratic values and constitutional rights.
The statement expressed deep concern over the apparent inaction of the security agencies, particularly the Malawi Defence Force, which allegedly stood by as the violence unfolded.
PAC called this silence a form of negligence that reflects poorly on institutions entrusted to protect citizens.
“Recalling that the Malawi Police Service gave assurances to the 6th All-Inclusive Stakeholders Conference delegates compounds the contradictory conduct of the enforcement agencies,” the statement read partly.
PAC further emphasized that even if the protests were organized by members of the opposition, this does not grant ruling authorities the liberty to suppress citizens’ constitutional right to peaceful assembly.
The incident has sparked outrage among civil society and human rights defenders, who are now demanding accountability from the country’s top security command.
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