Main opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) supporters were attacked on Saturday in Lilongwe when they were about to start their planned parade.
Dubbed the Blue Parade, the supporters who were gathered at Mbowe filling station were taken unaware when people, suspected to be from the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) attacked them using panga knives.
However, MCP has distanced itself from the attacks.
Leader of the parade, DPP deputy nation director of operations Levy Luwemba said the attackers came in two vehicles, four and seven-tonners.
“They hacked some of our supporters and some were lucky to get away. Over 20 people have been seriously injured,” said Lwemba who added that several vehicles were damaged.
Malawi Police Spokesperson Peter Kalaya said they are investigating the matter.
“We have information that party followers were attacked and their vehicles destroyed. We are investigating and we will share the findings,” he said.
Other opposition parties have joined stakeholders in condemning the violence.
UTM national publicity secretary Felix Njawala said the attacks seemed to be premeditated and coordinated by individuals with connections and resources.
He called on the Police to investigate the matter with full force and the law should take its course.
“We insist on unbiased action, without fear or favour, and no scared cows hidden from public scrutiny. The perpetrators need to be prosecuted to ensure justice. Despite the lawful gathering and all necessary approvals obtained for a peaceful parade, thugs affiliated with political parties viciously attacked peaceful citizens, resulting in injuries and damages to property.
“This barbaric behaviour undermines the democratic principals enshrined in our constitutional order and must be unequivocally condemned,” reads part of the statement.
