In a significant development aimed at promoting peace and safeguarding the academic calendar, talks between civil society organisations and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Central Region Vice-President Alfred Gangata have resulted in the suspension of Friday’s planned anti-violence demonstrations in Lilongwe.
The dialogue, which brought together key civil society figures including Benedicto Kondowe and Robert Mkwezalamba, focused on preventing further tension following last Thursday’s violent attacks on demonstrators by panga-wielding assailants.
A joint statement from the meeting, signed by Gangata and the civil society leaders, indicates that the decision to postpone the protests was made in the national interest—to ensure a calm and secure environment for students currently sitting for the Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations.
However, the civil society leaders used the platform to demand accountability and decisive leadership from President Lazarus Chakwera regarding the events of June 26, 2025, when supporters of Citizens for Credible Elections were violently attacked during a peaceful march.
“The President must make a public statement assuring Malawians of their safety as we approach the 2025 General Election,” the statement says.
Additionally, the stakeholders are calling on the Inspector General of Police and the Commander of the Malawi Defence Force to convene a multi-stakeholder meeting. The purpose of the meeting would be to chart a strategy for preventing further politically motivated violence.
While tensions remain high following the June 26 incident, the suspension of Friday’s protests signals a step toward dialogue and national stability. Stakeholders hope this move will pave the way for greater accountability, peace, and the upholding of democratic rights in Malawi.
