By Ruth Limula
Civil society organisations in Malawi, including the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC), are facing criticism for their selective activism, particularly in condemning Blantyre Mayor Isaac Jomo Osman for confronting suspected criminals in Limbe while remaining silent during the previous MCP government.
HRDC’s “Natural Death” Was Self-Inflicted
The HRDC’s sudden energy in speaking out on issues of rights, procedure, and dignity raises questions about their true motives, with some accusing them of political targeting rather than genuine human rights work. When MCP youths harassed citizens, HRDC remained silent, but now they’re vocal about a DPP-led council’s actions against theft.
HRDC’s Selective Outrage: Who Really Owes Malawi an Apology?
Malawians faced significant challenges under the previous government, including fuel queues, forex shortages, hunger, and fear, yet HRDC and its allies didn’t issue strong communiques or protests. This silence is seen as complicity, and citizens are demanding consistency and fairness from CSOs.
Activist Suleman Chitera Fires Strong Warning at HRDC Over ‘Destabilization Agenda’
The current DPP government, led by President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, is working to stabilize the economy and restore order. Mayor Jomo Osman’s actions in Limbe reflect a city tired of crime, and citizens cheered his efforts
Concerned Citizen tells HRDC to keep quiet
CSOs should focus on why citizens feel safer with Jomo than with the police and apply their human rights mandate consistently across governments and victims. Malawians remember HRDC’s silence and see bias, fueling citizen anger and demands for action.
