Malawi: Civil society organization calls for nationwide protests Dec. 16

Event

The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) civil society organization has called for nationwide protests across Malawi from Dec. 16 to demand that President Lazarus Chakwera curb illegal immigration. CDEDI maintains that immigrants from China, Nigeria, India, Lebanon, Pakistan, Rwanda, Burundi, and Somalia dominate the local economy at the expense of Malawian nationals. As of Dec. 10, the organization has announced planned protests in Lilongwe, Mzuzu, and Blantyre; however, precise protest march and rally locations have not yet been publicized. Likely protest locations include government buildings, such as the Malawi Parliament building in Lilongwe, and Department of Immigration offices in Lilongwe, Mzuzu, and Blantyre, as well as at CDEDI offices. Local media reports indicate that additional protests are possible beyond Dec. 16.

Authorities will almost certainly deploy additional forces to monitor the demonstrations. Clashes are possible should opposing protest groups gather in close proximity or if police seek to disperse gatherings. Ground travel disruptions are possible near all demonstration sites.

Advice

Avoid all protests in Lilongwe, Mzuzu, and Blantyre Dec. 16. Plan for ground travel disruptions. Heed the directives of the security forces.