By Burnett Munthali
The Malawi Peace and Unity Commission has condemned the actions of a group of individuals who forcibly disrupted demonstrations organized by opposition parties in Lilongwe yesterday. Armed with clubs, the group reportedly chased away people attempting to participate in the planned protest, sparking concern about the right to peaceful assembly.
Professor Francis Mkandawire, a commissioner with the Peace and Unity Commission, expressed disappointment over the incident, stating that such actions undermine Malawi’s democratic values. Speaking to Times360Malawi, Mkandawire emphasized the commission’s role in promoting peace and unity by encouraging citizens to resolve conflicts without resorting to violence. “Our mission is to build a peaceful nation, and it is critical for all citizens to respect each other’s rights and engage in non-violent discourse,” Mkandawire stated.
Established in 2022, the Peace and Unity Commission was created to foster unity and peaceful coexistence among Malawians, aiming to prevent conflict and encourage dialogue. The commission is now calling on all stakeholders, including political leaders and community members, to promote tolerance and respect for diverse viewpoints, especially during times of political tension.
