Renowned human rights activist Undule Mwakasungula has issued a strong warning against what he describes as “dangerous and reckless propaganda” circulating on social media, which accuses human rights defenders Colution (HRDC) of plotting to block former President Peter Mutharika and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) from reclaiming power.
In a strongly worded statement, Mwakasungula dismissed the allegations as false and misleading, saying they were not only aimed at tarnishing the image of HRDC but also posed a serious threat to peace and stability in the country.
“This propaganda is not only baseless but also puts the lives of innocent Malawians and human rights defenders at risk. Such falsehoods have the potential to trigger unnecessary political tensions and even push our country into crisis,” Mwakasungula warned.
Mwakasungula stressed that the core mandate of HRDs is to promote democracy, peace, and justice not to interfere in partisan politics.
He cautioned political actors against demonizing activists, saying targeting them with smear campaigns undermines the very democratic values Malawi has fought to uphold.
“Human rights defenders are not enemies of any political party or individual,” he said. “The DPP and its leadership must be reminded that HRDC are protected under both national and international human rights laws. Should any harm come to those falsely accused, the DPP will bear full responsibility.”
Turning to the ongoing electoral process, Mwakasungula underscored that only the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has the legal authority to announce the winner of the 2025 presidential elections.
He urged Malawians to remain calm and patient, emphasizing that MEC still has up to eight days, as stipulated by law, to finalize and announce the official results.
Mwakasungula concluded by calling for political maturity and restraint, warning that misinformation and propaganda at such a sensitive time could erode public trust in democratic institutions and destabilize the nation.
