By Burnett Munthali
In a shocking turn of events, a video clip surfaced on Friday, January 3, 2025, revealing a terrifying incident where former President Peter Mutharika’s close confidant, Norman Chisale, almost became a victim of a brutal kidnapping attempt. The video, uploaded to YouTube, shows a group of 17 thugs tracking Chisale as he made his way to Chichiri ShopRite in Blantyre, where they surrounded his car in a coordinated assault.
According to the footage, the thugs attempted to forcefully take control of Chisale, sparking a deadly struggle. The video shows an intense fight, with Chisale reportedly putting up strong resistance as he fought for his life. The attackers, after a brief but vicious confrontation, fled the scene, leaving Chisale to narrowly escape what could have been a disastrous turn of events.
This harrowing episode raises disturbing questions about the state of politics in Malawi today. The attempt on Chisale’s life underscores the growing volatility and danger surrounding political figures in the country. It is no secret that Malawi’s political climate has become increasingly charged, with tensions rising among various political factions and their supporters. However, incidents like this serve as a stark reminder of how far some individuals are willing to go to advance their interests.
The attempted kidnapping of Chisale is not an isolated event. In recent months, there has been a surge in political violence, with members of various political parties being targeted, harassed, and even assaulted. The level of aggression, which many had hoped was a thing of the past, has now become a reality in the streets and corridors of power.
While the motives behind the attack on Chisale remain unclear, the implications are undeniable. The political stakes in Malawi today have reached an alarming point, where the safety of individuals is no longer guaranteed. For a nation that has prided itself on its democratic values and peaceful transitions of power, these acts of violence signal a disturbing regression.
It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to investigate this attempt thoroughly and bring those responsible to justice. The perpetrators behind such violent actions must be held accountable to deter further escalation and ensure that Malawi’s political landscape does not descend into chaos. Furthermore, it is essential for leaders from all political parties to condemn acts of violence and work towards restoring a sense of security and respect for the rule of law.
In conclusion, the near-kidnapping of Norman Chisale is a chilling reminder of the dangerous path politics in Malawi is currently treading. If these acts of aggression and violence continue unchecked, the country risks not only political instability but also the erosion of democratic freedoms and the safety of its citizens. As Malawi moves towards its next general elections, it is imperative that the focus shifts back to peaceful dialogue and the promotion of healthy political discourse, rather than resorting to violence as a means of achieving political gains.
