Listen to this article

By Burnett Munthali

According to reports reaching our desk, on Friday, 21 August 2025, four gulewamkulu appeared at Walkers Total Energies Filling Station along M1 Road in Lilongwe.

Their intent, as reported, was to disrupt supporters of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) who were peacefully waiting for the party’s presidential candidate, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, ahead of the upcoming September 2025 elections.

The gulewamkulu were quickly overpowered by the crowd and fled into a nearby graveyard

Unfortunately, one gulewamkulu was caught by the angry mob and beaten.

The mob reportedly intended to burn the captured gulewamkulu alive, but police intervened and rescued him.

Additional information reaching our desk indicates that armed Malawi Congress Party (MCP) thugs were hiding in Biwi graveyard.

However, due to the overwhelming presence and vigilance of DPP supporters, they failed to carry out any attack.

The incident highlights the tensions surrounding political campaigns and the potential for violence during the buildup to the September 2025 elections.

Concluding Analysis

The confrontation at Walkers Total Energies illustrates the challenges of maintaining peace and security during intense political campaigns.

While the swift response of DPP supporters prevented further escalation, the involvement of traditional and armed groups underscores the need for robust law enforcement and political tolerance.

Authorities and party leaders must prioritize peaceful engagement, ensuring that political differences do not turn into violent confrontations.

The episode also reflects the high stakes and fervent emotions that characterize Malawi’s electoral environment, emphasizing the importance of voter education and non-violent campaign strategies.