By Burnett Munthali
Malawi’s Diplomatic Mission has issued a strong condemnation following a violent assault on peaceful protesters.
The Mission described the attack as “barbaric” and “a disgrace to democratic principles,” highlighting growing concerns over the conduct of state security institutions.
According to the statement, the brutal crackdown was carried out with the direct backing of the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) and the Malawi Police Service (MPS).
This development has sent shockwaves both within Malawi and abroad, raising serious questions about the state’s commitment to protecting fundamental rights.
The protesters were reportedly exercising their constitutional right to peacefully demonstrate against issues of national concern.
However, what was intended to be a peaceful civic exercise was met with force, intimidation, and violence.
Eyewitness accounts confirm that military and police personnel stood alongside armed thugs who launched coordinated attacks on unarmed demonstrators.
Rather than intervening to protect citizens, the security forces allegedly enabled the assault by creating a hostile environment.
The Diplomatic Mission stated that such conduct undermines Malawi’s reputation on the international stage and contradicts its obligations under both domestic and international law.
They further warned that continued abuse of power by state security forces could isolate Malawi diplomatically and economically.
The international community, particularly development partners, are closely monitoring how Malawian authorities respond to the incident.
The Mission emphasized that justice must be served, and those responsible—regardless of rank or title—must be held accountable.
They called for an immediate and independent investigation into the attack, with full transparency and public disclosure of findings.
The statement also reaffirmed support for human rights defenders and civil society actors who continue to advocate for democratic governance.
Malawi’s democratic progress, the Mission stressed, must not be reversed by state-sponsored brutality.
As the nation prepares for future elections, the integrity and neutrality of security institutions must be restored and guaranteed.
Failure to act decisively on this matter could deepen public mistrust and destabilize the nation further.
In conclusion, the Diplomatic Mission urged the Malawian government to uphold its constitutional responsibility to protect, not persecute, its own citizens.
