By Burnett Munthali
A video clip currently circulating on social media has sparked outrage and concern over growing political intolerance in Malawi.
In the footage, an unidentified man is seen boasting about having attacked a minibus that was transporting members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
According to the man, the minibus was en route from Ntchisi to Lilongwe after a political rally organized by Alfred Gangata, the DPP Vice President for the Central Region.
The incident reportedly took place in Dowa, and the man appears to be loading maize into an ox cart as he casually recounts the attack.
With a tone of pride, the man says in Chichewa, “Koma dzulo Norman Chisale tamuonetsa mbwadza kuno kwathu ku Dowa timatero boma ndi lomweli,” which loosely translates to, “Yesterday, we taught Norman Chisale a lesson here in Dowa; that’s how we do things here. This is our government.”
His use of the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) slogan “boma ndi lomweli” strongly suggests that he identifies with or supports the MCP.
The statement has raised serious alarm among political observers and human rights defenders, as it appears to celebrate violence based on political affiliation.
The clip has also drawn attention to previous remarks made by Norman Chisale, a close ally of former President Peter Mutharika, who once vowed to protect all DPP members from political harassment.
The incident raises critical questions about the state of political freedom and safety in Malawi, especially as the country edges closer to the 2025 elections.
There are growing fears that such open displays of political violence, if left unchecked, could escalate into broader conflict and instability.
Analysts are calling on law enforcement agencies to investigate the video and take appropriate action against the perpetrator.
They stress the need for a peaceful political environment where all parties can operate without fear of attack or intimidation.
Civil society organizations have also condemned the video, urging political leaders across the divide to denounce violence and promote national unity.
As the video continues to circulate widely, Malawians are left questioning whether the country is slipping back into an era of political thuggery and intolerance.
The ball now lies in the court of law enforcement, political leaders, and electoral bodies to act swiftly in ensuring justice, peace, and respect for democratic principles.
