By Rahim Abdul
The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has strongly dismissed growing allegations that the organisation is secretly working with the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), calling the claims false, malicious and aimed at tarnishing its long-standing reputation as an independent watchdog.
Speaking during a press briefing in Lilongwe, HRDC Chairperson Michael Kaiyatsa made it clear that the coalition remains non-partisan and committed solely to defending the rights and freedoms of Malawians.
He emphasised that HRDC’s work is guided by values of accountability, transparency and justice values that apply regardless of which political party is governing.
Kaiyatsa also refuted rumours suggesting that the coalition is planning disruptive protests to express dissatisfaction with the newly elected Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) administration.
He stressed that HRDC does not organise demonstrations carelessly or without clear justification, noting that peaceful protests are a constitutional right, not tools for political fights.
According to Kaiyatsa, the false narratives circulating on various social media pages are part of a wider effort to frustrate HRDC’s work and intimidate its members.
He said these smear campaigns are causing unnecessary fear among human rights defenders across the country, some of whom now feel unsafe or targeted.
“These stories are not only misleading but dangerous.They aim to silence people who are simply doing their job holding those in power accountable,”he explained.
In response to the rising hostility and threats faced by its members, HRDC has announced plans to launch a new initiative designed to protect human rights defenders who encounter risks such as security threats, politically motivated harassment or legal intimidation.
Kaiyatsa explained that the upcoming programme will provide targeted support, including legal assistance, safety training, rapid-response help and documentation of threats.
The initiative, he said, underscores HRDC’s commitment to ensuring that all those who fight for justice and dignity can do so without fear.
He noted that human rights defenders in Malawi continue to play a crucial role in safeguarding democracy, monitoring abuses and ensuring that ordinary citizens’ voices are heard. For this reason, HRDC believes it is essential to create a safer environment for activists and whistle-blowers nationwide.
The coalition also urged the public to remain vigilant against misinformation and to rely on verified sources when engaging with issues involving human rights and governance.
Kaiyatsa appealed to Malawians to support efforts aimed at strengthening democratic accountability, reminding them that the nation’s progress depends on active citizen participation.
