By Our Reporter

The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has expressed concern over what it terms as the “abuse of authority” by law enforcement agencies in the ongoing arrests of individuals suspected of participating in political violence during the previous administration.

In a statement released on Wednesday, MCP Publicity Secretary Jessie Kabwila said the party acknowledges the importance of ensuring that those who committed crimes face the law. However, she stressed that the process must remain fair and respect constitutional principles.

Kabwila disclosed that the party has received disturbing reports alleging that six of the suspects were tortured while in police custody on the night of November 3. She has called for an independent investigation into the claims, warning that human rights violations undermine the justice system and the rule of law.

MCP thugs suffers arrests and rearrests for various offences committed

“MCP does not defend criminal behavior. But justice must not be selective, and suspects must be treated in line with the Malawi Constitution and established human rights standards,” Kabwila said in the statement.

The party has also urged the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration to shift focus from what it describes as political persecution and instead address the pressing socio-economic challenges facing Malawians. Kabwila cited persistent fuel shortages, intermittent electricity blackouts, and water supply interruptions as key issues that need immediate government action.

Meanwhile, police are detaining seventeen alleged members of the notorious ‘Zikwanje’ gang, a group believed to have terrorized communities and been used to intimidate political opponents across the country. Law enforcement officials say investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the group’s involvement in acts of violence.

Human rights advocates have renewed calls for the police to respect due process, emphasizing that enforcing the law must not come at the expense of human dignity.

As the matter unfolds, political analysts warn that mishandling the arrests could fuel political tensions and weaken public trust in state institutions.