Malawi: Activists plan to protest in central Lilongwe Nov. 21

Activists affiliated with the Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) plan a protest march through the Mchesi area in central Lilongwe on Nov. 21. Demonstrators plan to gather at the Lilongwe Community Ground from 09:30 before marching to Capital Hill. The motives for the march include denouncing the ongoing fuel shortages, as well as raising concerns regarding the electoral process for the upcoming elections. The CDEDI has called for the march to remain peaceful. This is the second such demonstration in recent days: a similar event on Nov. 13 led to clashes between opposition protesters and armed individuals.

Increased security is likely in Lilongwe for the duration of the protest, especially near governmental buildings. Localized travel and business disruptions are likely along the protest route. Clashes between demonstrators, counter-protesters, and the police are possible, especially if participants ignore police orders to disperse or if they are overly disruptive.