The main opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has decried a recent spate and increase in the violence, terror and total breakdown of security mainly three serial killings registered in Lilongwe within the past few days.
This comes hours after a woman, Agnes Katengeza who was reported missing on Saturday in Lilongwe was found murdered and dumped at place near Mchinji roundabout along the Kaunda Road.
A Reserve Bank of Malawi manager and ICT specialist, left her house in Area 49 to sell merchandise, but she did not return home, with her vehicle found earlier. Last week, a Coca-Cola Beverages Africa employee Alan Wittika and a Parliament of Malawi clerical officer Michael Mphatso Thom were also found murdered within the city.
Agnes Katengeza, who was one of the Reserve Bank managers, and ICT specialist went missing on Saturday after she left her house in Area 49 to sell merchandise, but she did not return home.
Lilongwe Police Spokesperson Hastings Chigalu has confirmed that police have found the body of the woman but they are still investigating the incident.
“There is now an unprecedented rise in murders, cold blood killings, robberies, attacks and assaults, all happening under the watch of President Lazarus Chakwera and his Malawi Congress Party (MCP) dominated Tonse Alliance. We issue this statement to say NO to this violence, and we condemn Chakwera’s indifference to the suffering of people and businesses.
“These sad events, recent attacks and terror activities, are targeting ordinary persons, homes, businesses, motorists, while women and children have also increasingly sadly fallen victim. We have witnessed incidences and received reports that both urban and rural people are living in fear.
“In recent weeks, the country has witnessed a string of devastating murders. This recent surge in murders has sent shockwaves throughout the country. These soul-crushing acts of violence have not only claimed innocent lives but have also left communities traumatized and afraid, undermining the country’s development and reputation.
“Under the Tonse Alliance administration, the country has witnessed an increase in cases of armed robberies, carjackings, break-ins, and even politically motivated violence. These incidents have created a sense of fear and unease among the citizens, adversely impacting their daily lives and economic activities. Malawi has turned into a lawless state. Living and staying in Malawi is becoming dangerous. Sadly, the government seems to be turning a blind eye,” reads part of the statement released on September 24 and signed by party spokesperson Shadric Namalomba.
He said the consequences of these security lapses in the country are far- reaching and multifaceted.
“Firstly, they harm the social fabric of the nation by instilling fear and undermining citizens’ trust in their government’s ability to protect them. The societal fabric in Malawi, which prides itself on its peaceful coexistence, is being strained. The public’s faith in law enforcement, the justice system, and overall security is challenged.
“Secondly, the rise in crime rates negatively impacts the economic stability and growth of the country, as both domestic and foreign investments may decline due to concerns over safety. Thirdly, transnational crimes facilitated by weak border control have grave implications for regional security,” he said
He called on Malawians of goodwill to rise and demand restoration of security. D
“We demand that the responsible individuals be brought to justice without selectivity, strong cooperation among the police, judiciary, and other relevant authorities must prevail, fostering an environment where criminals are held accountable and public faith in the justice system is restored. Address economic challenges. Socioeconomic disparities, inadequate community policing, and a lack of educational and economic opportunities can contribute to a rise in crime rates.
“Simultaneously, reforming the judicial system is crucial to restoring public trust. Implementing fair and transparent appointment mechanisms for judges, offering training programs to enhance legal expertise, and providing adequate resources to courts will help rebuild confidence in the justice system.
“A robust and accountable law enforcement apparatus is vital to combating lawlessness. Investing in training, equipping, and professionalizing the police force, coupled with strong internal oversight mechanisms, will help regain public trust and ensure effective crime prevention and response. Lastly, Malawi must intensify efforts to combat organized crime. This entails strengthening border control, increasing international cooperation to dismantle criminal networks, and deploying resources to investigate and prosecute those involved in criminal activities,” he said
