Malawi: Anti-government protest to be held in Lilongwe, Oct. 12

Event

The civil society organization the 'Voice of the Voiceless' plans to protest in Lilongwe, Oct. 12. The exact protest route and start time is unknown; however, unconfirmed reports indicate that participants will march to the district commissioner's office. The group is demanding the government addresses the lack of student scholarships, the lack of allowances for soldiers, the increasing cost of living, the unavailability of fuel and of fertilizers, and government corruption. Reports suggest security personnel have deployed ahead of the march.

Clashes between police forces and protesters are possible if participants ignore orders to disperse. The protest action and security personnel response, which could include road closures, will likely result in ground travel and business operation disruptions. Affected areas could extend beyond the protest route should protestors be dispersed.

Advice

Avoid all protests and the protest route. Plan for road travel delays. Reconfirm the status of road closures in Lilongwe before departure. Heed instructions from security forces. If any violence erupts nearby, immediately depart the area and seek shelter in a secure nongovernment building.