Malawi: Civil society group to protest in Mzuzu, Nov. 16-18

Event

The National Congress Movement civil society group plans to protest in Mzuzu, Nov. 16-18. They are calling for the president either to organize a referendum on his presidency or to resign. The protest has received the approval of the Mbelwa council. Protestors plan to gather at the Katoto grounds, and march along the M1 to the Clock tower before returning to the grounds. Reports suggest security forces have been deployed to monitor the ongoing march, Nov. 16.

Clashes between police forces and protesters are possible should 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, including along portions of the M1.

Advice

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