Malawi Law Society demanded two top officials lose their jobs after violent attacks hit peaceful protesters Thursday. The legal group wants Minister of Homeland Security Ezekiel Ching'oma and Police Chief Merlyne Yolamu fired immediately. Armed attackers with machetes struck demonstrators as police officers watched without helping. The lawyers said both officials failed their constitutional duties to protect citizens. Video evidence shows security forces standing aside during the brutal assault.
The attacks happened during a march organized by Citizens for Credible Elections movement in Lilongwe. Protesters had gathered to demand changes at the election commission before September 2025 voting. Sylvester Namiwa led the demonstration and ended up hospitalized with serious injuries from the violence. He wanted election officials Anabel Ntalimanja and Andrew Mpesi to resign over competence concerns. The legal society called the attacks a clear attempt to stop free speech and assembly rights.
Law Society members cited specific constitutional sections that require police neutrality and proper conduct. They accused the police chief of staying silent when action was needed most. The group warned that government inaction makes citizens believe security forces work against them rather than for them. Human rights groups and opposition leaders have joined calls for an independent investigation. Government officials have not responded to the demands or explained the violence.
The lawyers ended their statement with a strong warning about rule of law. They told the President and Parliament to act fast to restore public trust. The legal group said state-sponsored violence cannot exist alongside proper justice. International observers have also expressed concern about the attacks on peaceful demonstrators. The incident raises serious questions about democratic freedoms ahead of next year's elections.
The attacks happened during a march organized by Citizens for Credible Elections movement in Lilongwe. Protesters had gathered to demand changes at the election commission before September 2025 voting. Sylvester Namiwa led the demonstration and ended up hospitalized with serious injuries from the violence. He wanted election officials Anabel Ntalimanja and Andrew Mpesi to resign over competence concerns. The legal society called the attacks a clear attempt to stop free speech and assembly rights.
Law Society members cited specific constitutional sections that require police neutrality and proper conduct. They accused the police chief of staying silent when action was needed most. The group warned that government inaction makes citizens believe security forces work against them rather than for them. Human rights groups and opposition leaders have joined calls for an independent investigation. Government officials have not responded to the demands or explained the violence.
The lawyers ended their statement with a strong warning about rule of law. They told the President and Parliament to act fast to restore public trust. The legal group said state-sponsored violence cannot exist alongside proper justice. International observers have also expressed concern about the attacks on peaceful demonstrators. The incident raises serious questions about democratic freedoms ahead of next year's elections.
