By Suleman Chitera
The Citizens for Credible Elections (CfCE) has called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of police officers who allegedly failed to act during the violent attack on human rights activist Sylvester Namiwa and other demonstrators in June.
CfCE Co-Chairperson Edward Kambanje said that while the arrest of six suspects linked to the incident is a welcome step, justice remains incomplete without holding accountable the police officers who neglected their duty to protect citizens.
“The police are duty-bound to protect every Malawian regardless of political or social affiliation. Their failure to intervene during the attack on Namiwa is a clear act of negligence that must not go unpunished,” Kambanje said.
According to Deputy Police Spokesperson Alfred Chimthere, the six suspects have already appeared in court to face charges of theft, malicious damage, and acts intended to cause grievous harm in connection with the assault on Namiwa and his fellow demonstrators.
Chimthere emphasized that investigations are ongoing and more arrests could follow as the police continue to gather evidence related to the incident.
The Citizens for Credible Elections is urging the Malawi Police Service and the Ministry of Homeland Security to demonstrate impartiality and commitment to justice by taking swift action against all officers implicated in the failure to act during the violent attack.
Observers have described the incident as a serious test for the rule of law and accountability in Malawi, with many civil society organizations warning that selective justice could erode public trust in law enforcement.
CfCE has reiterated its commitment to advocating for transparent governance, rule of law, and protection of civil rights, saying that justice for Namiwa and other victims must be fully served.
