Malawi: Opposition coalition calls for nationwide demonstrations January 16

Event

The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) opposition group has called for nationwide demonstrations on Thursday, January 16. Demonstrations are expected to begin at 12:00 (local time) in several locations. In Lilongwe, participants plan to gather at the Community Ground and then march to Capital Hill via Kamuzu Procession Road, Chilambula Road, Area 18 roundabout, Presidential Way, and Chilembwe. Organizers have called on supporters to dress in red, white, and black.

A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are to be expected along the march route.

Context

Election-related demonstrations organized by opposition supporters have been held regularly since May 26, after voting irregularities were reported during the May 21 general elections. Demonstrators have been calling for the resignation of Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) chairperson Jane Ansah, accusing her of mishandling the presidential elections. While HRDC maintains its demands for Ansah's resignation, there is growing discontent among protesters with President Mutharika and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) as a whole.

Advice

Individuals in Malawi, particularly Lilongwe, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests and public gatherings, anticipate transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence around demonstration sites, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.