The Lilongwe City Council has formally advised the United Transformation Movement (UTM) to postpone its upcoming rally, originally scheduled for Sunday, August 25, 2024, at Masintha Ground in Lilongwe. This recommendation comes in light of a significant scheduling conflict with a major event organized by the CCAP Church at CIVO Stadium on the same day.
Macloud Kadam’manja, CEO of the Lilongwe City Council, issued a statement citing concerns over potential clashes and disruptions. The rally’s timing coincides with the CCAP Church’s large-scale celebration, which will be attended by President Dr. Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera. The overlap in events raises concerns about public safety and the effective deployment of security personnel.
Kadam’manja’s statement emphasized the need for careful coordination to ensure both events can proceed smoothly without interference. “Given this development, we advise that you shift your rally to another date. On this day, most of the security personnel will be assigned duties to cover the CCAP function. It is my view that you will take heed of my advice,” the statement read.
In response to the statement, UTM officials have been instructed to reschedule their rally to avoid any conflicts with the church event. As of now, the UTM party has yet to issue a response or provide alternative arrangements for their rally.
The Lilongwe City Council’s intervention underscores the importance of managing large public gatherings in a way that maintains public order and safety, ensuring that both events can be conducted effectively without overlap
