Blantyre City Mayor Jomo Osman has apologized for his actions in a video that appears to show him assaulting a woman accused of buying stolen goods.
The apology came hours after human rights advocstes issued a statement strongly condemning the Mayor over the incident, which was broadcasting live on his Facebook page.
In a statement, Osman confirmed that he is the individual shown in the circulating video and he has described the incident as unfortunate and said he regrets that the situation escalated.
While noting that the full footage provides broader context, the Mayor said his actions fell short of the standards expected of him as a public official and as a leader in the city.
The Mayor said he welcomes any appropriate review of the incident and will cooperate fully.
Earlier, Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) condemns the alleged assault and the alleged assault of men present in the video by individuals accompanying the Mayor.
MHRC called on law enforcement to act swiftly and impartially to investigate the matter and ensure Osman is held accountable if found in the wrong.
However, National Police spokesperson Lael Chimtembo says Osman has been summoned to the Southern Region Police headquarters where he was questioned about the incident.
Chimtembo did not say whether Osman will be detained at the police station.
