The Public Affairs Committee (PAC), a prominent interfaith body of religious leaders in Malawi, has condemned the Malawi Police Service for remaining silent on whether any arrests have been made following the violent protests that occurred in Lilongwe more than two weeks ago.
PAC spokesperson Bishop Gilford Matonga expressed disappointment during an interview on Thursday, noting that despite clear video footage and photos circulating on social media showing armed individuals attacking civilians, the police have yet to inform the public of any action taken.
“Malawians saw with their own eyes people carrying weapons and attacking fellow citizens during the protests,It is deeply concerning that, to this day, the police have not issued any meaningful update on arrests or investigations.”said Bishop Matonga.
The protests, which turned violent, took place 15 days ago and left several people injured. One of the victims, Sylvester Nawa, was reportedly brutally assaulted in full view of both Malawi Police Service and Malawi Defence Force (MDF) officers. No arrests have been made in connection with the incident, despite the existence of visual evidence allegedly identifying some of the perpetrators.
PAC has now called on President Lazarus Chakwera to address the nation and clarify what steps his administration is taking to prevent a recurrence of such violence.
“We need the President to come forward and assure the public that this government values justice and is taking decisive steps to maintain law and order,” Matonga added.
In a related development, Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) member Robert Nkwezalamba echoed PAC’s concerns, warning that the inaction by law enforcement is eroding public confidence in the police.
“It is unacceptable that no arrests have been made, even when there is clear evidence of who committed these acts,This sends a dangerous message that violence can go unpunished.”said Nkwezalamba
Efforts to obtain a comment from the Malawi Police Service were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
The continued silence from authorities has sparked outrage among civil society groups and the general public, with growing calls for transparency, accountability, and swift justice for the victims of the protest violence.
