The United Democratic Front (UDF) has condemned the recent political violence in Ndirande Township, Blantyre, where women wearing Malawi Congress Party (MCP) regalia were harassed by unidentified individuals as they were traveling to Providence Industrial Mission in Chiradzulu for the Chilembwe Day commemoration.
In a press statement, UDF National Publicity Secretary Dyson Jangiya described the incidents as unethical and unlawful, emphasizing that it is unacceptable for anyone to infringe on the human rights of others due to differing political ideologies.
He reiterated that every individual in Malawi has the right to support and associate with any political party without fear of intimidation or violence.
“It is deeply troubling to witness such acts of violence and harassment against women, who deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. Women have the right to express their political affiliations without interference,” Jangiya stated.
Jangiya further called on the citizenry to refrain from political violence, highlighting the importance of respecting each other’s rights and freedoms.
He also appealed to political party leaders and stakeholders to take responsibility for promoting peace and stability among their supporters as the country prepares for the upcoming general elections on September 16, 2025.
“As a party that championed the fight for Malawi’s political freedom, we urge everyone to reject violence and uphold the values of peace and democracy,” he added.
In related developments, Malawi Defence Force General Commander Paul Valentino Phiri and Malawi Police Service Inspector General Mrs. Merlyn Nachulu Yolamu issued a joint statement condemning the political violence and warning that all perpetrators will be arrested and held accountable as the nation heads towards the elections.
Meanwhile, Oxfam and the Women’s Legal Resource Centre (WORLEC) are scheduled to hold a press briefing on political violence against women in Lilongwe on Wednesday.
On the same day, the Malawi Police Service will launch a campaign against violence targeting women in politics at Chinsapo, Lilongwe, further emphasizing the collective efforts to address and combat these issues.
