By Suleman Chitera – Lilongwe, June 28
A coalition of civil society organizations under the Council for Non-Governmental Organizations in Malawi (CONGOMA) has called for disciplinary action against police officers who failed to uphold their duties during violent incidents that marred planned protests in Lilongwe.
CONGOMA Chairperson George Jobe expressed deep concern over the conduct of security officers who were assigned to protect protestors and maintain peace. He accused the officers of neglecting their responsibilities, which he said contributed to the chaos that unfolded when unidentified individuals armed with weapons disrupted the demonstrations.
“The police officers who were deployed to safeguard the protests failed to carry out their mandated duties. They must be investigated and held accountable,” Jobe stated.
The protests, which were organized across multiple locations, were aimed at demanding the resignation of certain officials from the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC). While demonstrations proceeded peacefully in some areas, the situation in Lilongwe turned violent, raising alarm among rights groups and the general public.
Jobe urged state security agencies to swiftly identify and arrest all individuals involved in the violence, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability to preserve public trust in law enforcement.
Meanwhile, President Lazarus Chakwera, who is currently on an official visit to Nigeria, has said he will wait for a full report on the events before making any pronouncements or decisions.
The developments have sparked renewed debate over the role and effectiveness of law enforcement in safeguarding democratic freedoms and ensuring public safety during civil demonstrations.
