The clash has set the stage for a fresh showdown in Karonga, with the rights group refusing to back down from planned demonstrations over the troubled Karonga-Chiweta Road
The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) says preparations for the protests are at an advanced stage and will go ahead as planned.
In a statement released Thursday, the rights grouping said it has already notified all relevant authorities in line with legal requirements and remains committed to the citizen action.
The coalition said the demonstrations seek to draw attention to delays in rehabilitating the road, which serves communities in Karonga, Chitipa and Rumphi districts.
HRDC said the issue is no longer whether the road should be rehabilitated but how long citizens should continue waiting for meaningful action after years of promises, commitments and announcements.
“Peaceful citizen action is not an act of hostility towards government; it is a legitimate democratic tool for ensuring accountability and reminding public authorities of their obligations to the people,” the coalition said.
The organisation said citizens have a constitutional right to peacefully assemble, demonstrate and express concerns on matters affecting their livelihoods, safety and economic well-being.
HRDC also welcomed reports that the Minister of Transport and other government officials are expected to engage stakeholders on the matter.
However, it argued that communities should focus on tangible action, clear implementation plans and measurable progress rather than assurances alone.
The statement came a day after traditional leaders and Civic Society Organisations (CSO’s)
rejected the planned demonstrations and urged HRDC to pursue dialogue with government instead.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ media engagement in Karonga on Wednesday, Kyungu warned against a repeat of the destruction that followed demonstrations held in the district in 2019.
Therefore, HRDC should resort to contact and dialogue with government, which has already responded positively,” he said.
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Senior Chief Karonga also questioned HRDC’s approach, accusing the coalition of remaining silent on the deteriorating state of the road for years before calling for demonstrations.
Meanwhile, Karonga District CSO Network chairperson Edgar Phiri said local civil society organisations and other stakeholders from Karonga, Chitipa and Rumphi districts will not participate in the planned protests.
According to Phiri, stakeholders have requested meetings with the Minister of Transport and Public Works, the Roads Authority and the Roads Fund Administration to discuss progress on rehabilitation works.
However, HRDC maintained that citizens have moo po.OK right to demand timely action and accountability from public officials. The coalition said rehabilitation of the Karonga-Chiweta Road is a public obligation and not a favour from government.
The organisation plans to shut down the Karonga-Chiweta section of the M1 Road from July 1 to pressure government to accelerate rehabilitation works on the route.
