By Burnett Munthali
Political tensions in Malawi appear to be intensifying as the country inches closer to the 2025 General Elections.
Recent reports suggest that violence is already taking root, threatening the democratic foundations upon which Malawi’s governance system is built.
An audio clip currently making rounds on social media, shared by activist Bon Kalindo, alleges that members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) were violently attacked by suspected supporters of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
The attack reportedly occurred as the DPP supporters were traveling to Mponela to attend a political rally.
According to the details emerging from the recording, the DPP supporters were intercepted at Kasisi, just before reaching Bua, by individuals alleged to be MCP members.
This act of aggression prevented them from proceeding with their journey, turning what should have been a routine political event into an incident of conflict.
Such occurrences reflect a disturbing pattern of political intolerance that is increasingly becoming common in Malawi’s political landscape.
Malawi prides itself on being a democratic nation, yet acts of intimidation, harassment, and politically motivated violence continue to overshadow the country’s commitment to democratic principles.
The essence of democracy lies in allowing diverse political voices to be heard, yet when opposition supporters are attacked, it raises questions about whether the political environment truly guarantees freedom of expression and association.
The recent attack on DPP supporters is not an isolated event but rather part of a growing list of incidents where political actors and their followers face hostility.
Over the years, there have been numerous reports of violence, particularly during election periods, which often create a climate of fear among citizens.
This troubling trend not only discourages active political participation but also weakens public confidence in the democratic process.
Adding to the growing tensions, the DPP Vice President recently announced plans to hold a political rally in Salima.
However, in what appears to be a counter-strategy, the ruling MCP scheduled its own rally at a location very close to the DPP gathering.
While political parties have the right to hold rallies anywhere within the country, such scheduling raises concerns about whether these decisions are being made in good faith or as a means of provoking conflict between rival political factions.
The proximity of these gatherings increases the likelihood of confrontations, further fueling political hostilities that could spiral into full-blown violence.
If these developments are not addressed, Malawi risks experiencing even greater levels of political conflict in the months leading up to the elections.
Political violence does not only endanger the lives of individuals but also threatens national stability.
It creates an atmosphere of fear that can suppress voter turnout and skew the electoral process, ultimately undermining the legitimacy of the elections.
In a nation where democratic values should be upheld, political rivalry should be expressed through debates, policies, and electoral competition—not through physical confrontations and intimidation.
The responsibility of ensuring a peaceful political environment lies with multiple stakeholders.
The government must demonstrate its commitment to democracy by ensuring that law enforcement agencies act impartially to prevent political violence.
Security forces should remain neutral and take swift action against perpetrators of politically motivated attacks, regardless of their party affiliation.
Similarly, the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) must be proactive in addressing concerns about political tensions.
MEC should engage political parties to encourage peaceful conduct during campaigns and ensure that all parties have equal opportunities to mobilize their supporters without fear of violence.
Electoral stakeholders must also advocate for an issue-based campaign rather than one driven by hostility and personal attacks.
Political leaders themselves must take responsibility for discouraging violence.
Malawi’s democracy will only thrive if leaders, across all political parties, denounce acts of aggression and ensure that their supporters respect democratic principles.
Leaders should call for tolerance and emphasize the need for peaceful engagement rather than using inflammatory rhetoric that incites violence.
With less than two years before Malawians go to the polls, the future of the country’s democracy remains uncertain.
If political violence continues unchecked, the country risks plunging into a crisis that could have long-term consequences on governance, national cohesion, and economic stability.
Civil society organizations, religious leaders, and the international community must also play an active role in demanding accountability and promoting peace.
Democracy is not merely about holding elections—it is about ensuring that the electoral process is free, fair, and credible.
For this to happen, every citizen must be able to participate in the process without fear of violence or persecution.
As Malawi looks ahead to the 2025 elections, it is imperative that all political players commit to upholding democratic values.
Malawians deserve an electoral process that reflects their collective aspirations for a just, inclusive, and peaceful society.
It is only through mutual respect and tolerance that Malawi can maintain its reputation as a democratic nation where politics is guided by principles, not violence.
