09 Dec 2019 | 07:57 AM UTC
Malawi: Opposition coalition organizes march in Lilongwe December 10
Opposition coalition has called for a march in Lilongwe on December 10; heightened security presence and localized transportation disruptions expected
Event
The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has called for a protest in Lilongwe on Tuesday, December 10. Participants plan to gather at community ground and then march to Capital Hill via Kamuzu Central Hospital. Organizers did not immediately announce a meeting time, however, they 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. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Context
Election-related demonstrations organized by opposition supporters have been held 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 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.
