Malawi: Activists to protest in Lilongwe, May 18

Event

The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) non-governmental organization (NGO) plans to demonstrate in Lilongwe, May 18. The HRDC will protest to demand that Martha Chizuma be appointed as the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Director-General. The government's Public Appointments Committee recently voted against Chizuma's appointment. Protesters will gather at the Community Ground before proceeding to Parliament. The starting time of the action is unknown. Hundreds of people are likely to participate in the action should it proceed.

Heightened security is likely near protester gathering points and along marching routes. Ground travel delays are also likely in these areas. Clashes between demonstrators and the police are possible if participants in the march ignore police orders to disperse or if they are overly disruptive.

Advice

Avoid the protest as a standard precaution. Exercise caution near the gathering points and plan for ground travel delays.