By Suleman Chitera | Lilongwe, Malawi
The Independent Complaints Commission (ICC) has launched an investigation into the role played by the Malawi Police Service during a recent violent incident in which Citizens for Credible Elections (CCE) Executive Director, Sylvester Namiwa, was assaulted by panga-wielding thugs in full view of law enforcement officers.
Chief Legal Officer for the commission, Nicely Msowoya, confirmed that the probe follows public outcry and complaints received by the commission after disturbing footage and eyewitness accounts showed that both police officers and Malawi Defence Force (MDF) personnel allegedly stood by as Namiwa and others were attacked.
“This incident is deeply concerning, especially given that the Malawi Police Service recently launched its Public Order Management policy and operational guidelines,” said Msowoya. “It is expected that police conduct during crowd control aligns with these guiding documents.”
Msowoya added that the commission is reviewing whether police officers violated professional standards or neglected their duty to protect citizens during the demonstrations.
The protests, held in Lilongwe, were organized to demand the resignation of Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Chairperson Justice Anabel Mtalimanja and Chief Elections Officer Andrew Mpesi. Protesters argue that both officials are too compromised to fairly oversee the upcoming General Elections scheduled for September 16.
“If our findings reveal professional misconduct or dereliction of duty, we will submit recommendations for appropriate action, including disciplinary measures, to the relevant authorities,” said Msowoya.
The ICC’s investigation is being closely watched by both civil society groups and the general public, who are calling for accountability and stronger enforcement of law and order—especially during politically charged events.
The Malawi Police Service has not yet commented publicly on the commission’s investigation.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Malawi Freedom Network.
