The Malawi Police Service (MPS) has warned the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) and members of the public against blocking the Karonga–Chiweta stretch of the M1 Road during planned demonstrations on July 1, insisting that the country’s major highway must remain open to traffic.BMTV accuses HRDC of working against DPP
In a statement, the police said while Malawians have a constitutional right to hold peaceful demonstrations, any attempt to block the road or disrupt public order will be met with legal action. The MPS stressed that anyone found violating the law during the protests will face arrest and prosecution.
The warning comes ahead of HRDC-led demonstrations aimed at pushing the government to urgently rehabilitate the Karonga–Chiweta Road, whose deteriorating condition has become a growing concern for motorists, businesses and communities in northern Malawi.Corrupt Practices Affects Service Selivery In District Councils
Responding to the police statement, HRDC Chairperson Michael Kaiyatsa maintained that the planned demonstrations are a lawful exercise of the constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.
Kaiyatsa said the coalition has already notified both the Rumphi District Council and the Malawi Police Service in accordance with legal requirements governing public demonstrations.
He argued that the role of the police is to facilitate and provide security for peaceful protests rather than prohibit them, adding that HRDC remains committed to conducting peaceful and non-violent demonstrations.
The coalition further said it remains open to dialogue with the authorities, provided such engagement leads to meaningful action to address the worsening state of the Karonga–Chiweta Road, a critical transport corridor connecting northern Malawi to the rest of the country.HRCC defends National Bank amid K5 Billion cash withdrawal storm
The planned July 1 demonstrations are expected to draw significant public attention as pressure continues to mount on the government to improve one of Malawi’s most strategic road networks.
