By Phillimon Backson
A governance and human rights advocate, Undule Mwakasungula has called on the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) to suspend its planned demonstrations over the Karonga–Chiweta Road, arguing that the government’s commitment to rehabilitate the road provides an opportunity for dialogue and constructive engagement rather than confrontation.
In a statement released on Sunday, Mwakasungula says although the Constitution guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and demonstrations, those rights should be exercised responsibly and in a manner that protects the broader national interest.
He said the government’s public commitment to begin rehabilitation works on the Karonga–Chiweta Road presents an opportunity for HRDC and other civil society organisations to shift their focus towards monitoring implementation, demanding clear timelines, tracking progress, and holding authorities accountable for delivering on their promises.
Mwakasungula argued that blocking the Karonga–Chiweta Road, which forms part of the M1 and serves as one of Malawi’s key transport corridors, could disrupt the movement of goods and services, increase transport costs, and negatively affect businesses and the country’s economy.
According to him, protecting constitutional freedoms and promoting economic development should go hand in hand, adding that responsible advocacy should strengthen both human rights and national development.
