2024-11-04

Opinion: MCP’s continued violence against DPP must be condemned

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On Sunday 27 October 2024, we witnessed a troubling incident involving the destruction of Hon. Chipungu’s vehicle, who serves as an advisor to former President Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika and is a member of the National Assembly. This act, carried out by youths associated with the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), is not an isolated event; it is part of a disturbing pattern of violence aimed at undermining the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).

The continued aggression from MCP supporters raises serious questions about the leadership and values of the party. One must ask: why is President Lazarus Chakwera allowing this culture of violence to persist? As a pastor and a leader, Chakwera has a moral obligation to promote peace and unity among Malawians. Instead, his silence in the face of such aggression sends a dangerous message that this behavior is acceptable.

Prof. Mutharika has consistently called on Chakwera to guide his supporters toward peaceful campaigning and to respect the rights of others to participate in the democratic process. It is concerning that these calls have gone largely unanswered. The failure to address such issues only emboldens those who believe they can act with impunity, leading to a climate of fear and intimidation.

This situation is reminiscent of previous incidents, such as the chaos surrounding the Mbowe event, where political opponents faced similar threats and violence. These actions undermine the very foundations of our democracy, where differing political opinions should be expressed without fear of retaliation. If Malawi is to progress as a democratic nation, we must reject violence as a tool for political competition.

Chakwera’s lack of action raises further questions about his commitment to upholding democratic values. As a leader, he should be striving to foster an environment where all political parties can campaign freely and openly, without harassment or violence. The failure to do so not only damages the reputation of the MCP but also threatens the stability of our democratic institutions.

In conclusion, the ongoing violence from MCP supporters against the DPP is deeply concerning and must be condemned. It is time for President Chakwera to take a firm stand against such behavior and promote a culture of peace, respect, and constructive political engagement. The future of Malawi’s democracy relies on our ability to engage with one another civilly, regardless of our political affiliations. We owe it to ourselves and to future generations to ensure that political discourse remains respectful and non-violent.

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