By Burnett Munthali
The nationwide demonstrations held on Monday, November 25, 2024, were marked by an unexpected twist as thugs armed with panga knives fled the scene amidst public resistance and tightened security measures. The protests, organized to demand transparency and better governance from the administration, saw Malawians from various walks of life marching peacefully in cities such as Lilongwe, Blantyre, and Zomba.
Eyewitnesses reported that the thugs, who had positioned themselves strategically to intimidate and disrupt the demonstrators, appeared unnerved when the crowd resisted their attempts to create chaos. In Lilongwe, a group of young men wielding panga knives was spotted near the Parliament Roundabout but fled as protestors confronted them with chants denouncing violence.
“They thought they could scare us, but today we came prepared,” said Henry Chirwa, one of the protestors. “This is our right, and we won’t let anyone take it from us.”
The Malawi Police Service, heavily criticized in the past for failing to protect citizens during demonstrations, stepped up its game this time. A significant police presence was observed at key protest hotspots, ensuring that the demonstrations remained peaceful.
“We had received intelligence about potential disruptions by armed thugs,” said police spokesperson Peter Kalaya. “Our officers were on high alert to prevent any violence, and it seems the perpetrators knew better than to challenge us.”
The presence of thugs at protests has long been a contentious issue in Malawi, with many accusing political parties of hiring them to intimidate opponents or delegitimize genuine grievances.
Political analyst Dr. Thokozani Jere believes the fleeing of the thugs signals a shift in public tolerance for political violence. “For years, we’ve seen such groups wreak havoc during demonstrations, but today the people showed they would not be silenced. This is a victory for democracy.”
Civil society organizations have commended the protestors and law enforcement for ensuring a peaceful demonstration. However, they have also called for investigations into the origins of the panga-wielding thugs.
“We must identify and hold accountable those who sponsor these acts of violence,” said Timothy Phiri, a human rights activist. “Violence has no place in a democratic society, and those behind it must face justice.”
Hope for Peaceful Protests
Monday’s events may represent a turning point in Malawi’s protest culture. The unified resistance against intimidation and violence sends a powerful message to those who seek to undermine democratic expression.
As the nation continues to grapple with challenges such as economic hardship, corruption, and political unrest, the courage and determination displayed by peaceful demonstrators offer hope for a brighter, more just Malawi.
