The recent remarks by Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Spokesperson Jessie Kabwila condemning the arrest and re-arrest of 17 individuals accused of political violence are both disappointing and misguided.
Kabwila’s comments reflect a troubling lack of empathy for the victims of the very violence she now seeks to politicize.
It is important to remind Kabwila that during the MCP administration, one of her fellow women a civil servant was brutally stabbed in Lilongwe by individuals believed to be part of the same group now facing charges.
Many Malawians still remember those dark days when innocent people were attacked simply for expressing dissenting political views.
It is, therefore, deeply ironic to hear Kabwila defending the very suspects who allegedly terrorized peaceful citizens with machetes and other weapons.
One must ask: when did Kabwila and the MCP suddenly develop the moral courage to label the arrests of these suspects as “politically motivated”? Where was this concern for justice when ordinary Malawians were being assaulted in the streets of Lilongwe? Where was her voice when the families of victims cried out for accountability and justice?
If Kabwila truly believes in the rule of law, she should support due process rather than defend individuals whose actions are on record some even captured on camera attacking peaceful demonstrators.
Justice cannot be selective. The MCP cannot, on one hand, claim to be a party that upholds democracy and human rights, and on the other hand, shield those accused of violating those very principles.
Instead of condemning the Malawi Police Service (MPS) for performing its duty, Kabwila should be commending the authorities for acting professionally and ensuring that those accused of political violence face justice. What Malawi needs now is accountability, not political spin.
The rule of law must apply equally to everyone, regardless of political affiliation.
Kabwila’s remarks only serve to reopen old wounds and undermine the fight against political violence. As a seasoned politician and academic, she should know better.
Her energy would be better spent promoting peace, urging respect for legal processes, and supporting victims of political attacks rather than defending those accused of committing them.
Malawians deserve leaders who stand for justice, not those who justify wrongdoing under the guise of politics.
It is time for Jessie Kabwila to end her reckless remarks and start showing genuine concern for the rule of law and the victims of violence.
