By Burnett Munthali
In a scathing condemnation of the Malawi Police Service, Comrade Edwards Kambanje, a prominent member of the Concerned Citizens, has described the use of live bullets against Hon. Brenda Saidi and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) supporters in Area 3 as a shocking and barbaric abuse of power. His remarks came during an exclusive interview where he responded to a detailed questionnaire on the growing concerns over police brutality in Malawi.
The incident, which has left Hon. Brenda Saidi hospitalized at Kamuzu Central Hospital, has sparked national outrage. Kambanje’s critique underscored the broader implications of the incident on human rights, democracy, and public trust in law enforcement.
Kambanje expressed his horror at the police’s decision to use live ammunition, terming it an act of recklessness and disregard for human life. “This is not only an attack on Hon. Brenda Saidi as an individual but a gross violation of the democratic principles this country stands for. The police should protect lives, not endanger them,” he stated.
Responding to questions on police accountability, Kambanje lamented the culture of impunity within the Malawi Police Service. He argued that without stringent oversight mechanisms and independent investigations, such incidents would continue unabated. “The absence of accountability emboldens the police to act as if they are above the law. This must stop,” he emphasized.
Kambanje did not mince words when addressing allegations of political bias within the police force. He accused the police of acting as a tool for the ruling elite, stating that their actions in Area 3 were aimed at suppressing opposition voices. “The police have been reduced to an oppressive force, serving political interests instead of upholding the rule of law,” he declared.
The incident, according to Kambanje, strikes at the heart of Malawi’s democratic values. “Freedom of assembly and expression are cornerstones of democracy. The actions of the police send a chilling message that dissent will not be tolerated,” he warned.
Kambanje called on the government to take swift and decisive action to address the incident. He demanded an independent investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the use of live ammunition. “Justice for Hon. Brenda Saidi is non-negotiable. Anything less would be a betrayal of the Malawian people,” he asserted.
On police reform, Kambanje proposed comprehensive changes to transform the Malawi Police Service into an institution that protects citizens rather than oppressing them. He also highlighted the critical role of civil society and human rights organizations in advocating for justice and accountability. “Civil society must rise to the occasion and demand reforms. This is a fight for the soul of our nation,” he said.
Kambanje acknowledged the erosion of public trust in the police, stating that incidents like these widen the gap between law enforcement and the citizenry. “To rebuild trust, the police must demonstrate transparency, accountability, and a genuine commitment to protecting human rights,” he advised.
Concluding the interview, Kambanje urged Malawians to stand united against police brutality. “This is not just about politics; it’s about justice and the future of our country. Let us hold our leaders and institutions accountable. Together, we can demand a police service that serves and protects all Malawians equally,” he said.
The words of Comrade Edwards Kambanje echo the sentiments of many Malawians who are tired of witnessing unchecked police brutality. The incident involving Hon. Brenda Saidi is a stark reminder of the urgent need for reforms within the Malawi Police Service. As the nation grapples with the implications of this tragedy, one thing is clear: justice must prevail.
The journey toward a just and accountable police service is long and arduous, but with voices like Comrade Kambanje’s leading the charge, there is hope for a brighter future. Malawi cannot afford to let this moment pass without action. It is a wake-up call for all citizens to demand a system that prioritizes human rights, equality, and justice.
