Authorities linked to the governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) are facing a stern warning over the alleged abuse of the State House logo on private vehicles.
The insignia is reportedly being used to project official authority, intimidate traffic law enforcement officers and help some motorists evade lawful checks.
State House has now ordered anyone unlawfully displaying its logo to remove it immediately and stop the practice.
Presidential Press Secretary Cathy Maulidi said the State House has noted with serious concern the growing misuse of its official logo by individuals attempting to fake official authority.
She said some of those displaying the insignia on private vehicles are doing so to intimidate traffic law enforcement officers or evade lawful checks.
“State House unequivocally condemns this practice,” Maulidi said.
She stressed that no private individual or unauthorised vehicle is permitted to display the State House insignia for personal benefit or to secure preferential treatment.
The warning puts the spotlight on the use of state symbols by individuals seeking to create an impression of political or official power.
It also raises questions over whether people with links to the governing establishment are using proximity to power as a shield against ordinary law enforcement.
State House has ordered all individuals unlawfully displaying its insignia to remove it immediately and cease the practice.
Maulidi warned that the presidency will not tolerate the abuse of official symbols to intimidate law enforcement officers, evade the law or undermine state authority.
State House has therefore called on law enforcement agencies to take firm, immediate and appropriate action against offenders.
Last year, shortly after being sworn in as President, Peter Mutharika warned his supporters against using “Ana a Dad” number plates and other symbols of presidential privilege, stressing that his election victory should not be interpreted as a licence for anyone to place themselves above the law.
