Malawi: Opposition coalition calls for nationwide demonstrations for June 10 /update 9

Event

The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) announced that they intend to hold nationwide protests and vigils on Wednesday, June 10. The motive for the protests is to demand electoral accountability in the upcoming 2020 presidential elections, as well as to demand the removal of Jean Manthanga and Linda Kunje as Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) commissioners. Protesters are expected to gather at 08:00 (local time) at the Community Ground in Lilongwe on Wednesday, before marching to the Malawi Parliament Building. A similar demonstration is expected to take place at the Upper Stadium in Blantyre at 08:00. Other protest locations and times were not immediately announced, but similar demonstrations are expected to take place in urban centers nationwide.

A heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions are to be expected in the vicinity of any demonstrations.

Context

Election-related demonstrations organized by opposition supporters have been held regularly since May 26, 2019, after voting irregularities were reported during the May 21 general elections. The Malawian Constitutional Court in Lilongwe annulled Peter Mutharika's 2019 presidential election victory on Monday, February 3, upholding an application submitted by opposition parties. A new vote will be held on Thursday, July 2.

Advice

Individuals in Malawi are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests, anticipate disruptions to transportation and business and a heightened security presence near demonstration sites, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.