By Suleman Chitera
Police in Malawi have arrested six individuals suspected of assaulting human rights activist Sylvester Namiwa and several government employees during recent demonstrations.
Deputy Police Public Relations Officer Alfred Chimthere confirmed the arrests and identified the suspects as Alfred Kadula, Joseph Tilibe Gedion, Lameck Mandowa, Lester Henleck Kungunga, Haward Hamuzza, and Mabvuto Njuchi.
According to Chimthere, the suspects have already appeared before the court and are expected to return soon to continue answering their charges.
The incident occurred in June 2025, when Namiwa, who serves as Executive Director of the Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI), was allegedly attacked while leading protests demanding the resignation of Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Chairperson Annabel Mtalimanja.
Meanwhile, government workers who were demonstrating over low salaries and poor working conditions were also assaulted and injured by unknown individuals.
Police say investigations are ongoing to ensure that all perpetrators are brought to justice.
Namiwa has long been a vocal critic of government inefficiencies and has organized several peaceful demonstrations aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in Malawi.
The arrests mark a significant step in addressing cases of political violence and intimidation against activists and civil servants who exercise their right to peaceful protest.
