By Twink Jones Gadama
A political expert, Wonderful Mkhuche, has condemned the failure of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP)-led government to condemn political violence perpetrated by its supporters in the central region.
Mkhuche argues that this failure has led to the spread of violence to other regions and districts, including the recent Machinga fiasco.
According to Mkhuche, if the MCP had condemned the violence in Lilongwe and other parts of the central region, it would not have spread to other districts.
“The government’s silence on the matter is deafening,” Mkhuche said. “By failing to condemn the violence, the government is sending a message that it condones such behavior.”
The police have also come under fire for failing to apprehend the suspects involved in the violence.
Mkhuche criticized the police for their inaction, saying that they have a responsibility to protect all citizens, regardless of their political affiliation.
The recent Machinga incident, is just one example of the growing trend of political violence in the country.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for the government to take action to prevent further violence.
The MCP-led government has been accused of failing to deliver on its campaign promises, including addressing corruption and improving the economy.
The opposition has been vocal in its criticism of the government, and tensions between the two sides have been rising in recent months.
Mkhuche’s comments come as the country prepares for the 2025 general elections.
The elections are expected to be highly contested, with many predicting a close race between the MCP and the opposition parties.
In a related development, the MCP has condemned the recent Machinga incident, describing it as “unacceptable”.
However, the party’s critics argue that its condemnation comes too late and that it has not done enough to prevent such incidents in the past.
As the country moves closer to the elections, it remains to be seen whether the government will take decisive action to address the growing trend of political violence.
One thing is certain, however: the people of Malawi deserve better, and it is up to their leaders to ensure that they are protected and that justice is served.
