By Rahim Abdul
A group of suspected Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) supporters on Saturday reportedly attacked Malawi Congress Party (MCP) followers in Mtandire Township, Lilongwe, leaving several people injured and properties destroyed.
Eyewitnesses say the attackers arrived in lorries, armed with pangas, sticks, and other crude weapons.
They allegedly tore down MCP flags and campaign banners before physically assaulting those found at the scene.
One eyewitness, Jones Phiri, told our reporter that the MCP supporters who were present attempted to resist but were overpowered.
“They tried to defend themselves, but the group was too large and aggressive. In the end, some of them sustained injuries,” he narrated.
Local leader George Zulu, who represents the Mtandire-Mtsiriza area, has condemned the violence, stressing the need for political tolerance.
“We cannot allow politics to divide us and cause bloodshed. What we need now is peace and unity, regardless of which party one supports,” he said.
The incident comes just hours before a planned DPP mass rally at Chilimampunga Ground in Lilongwe, where party president and former head of state Peter Mutharika is expected to address his supporters.
Meanwhile, efforts to get a comment from DPP spokesperson Shadreck Namalomba proved futile as he could not be reached.
The MCP leadership has also not yet issued an official statement on the matter.
Police in Lilongwe are yet to confirm the number of casualties or arrests made.
