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Malawi Human Rights Commission condemns political violence against women and marginalized groups

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By Jones Gadama

The Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) has strongly condemned recent acts of political violence and discrimination targeting female candidates and marginalized groups ahead of the 2025 general elections.

In a statement signed by MHRC Chairperson Chikondi Chijozi, the Commission expressed deep concern over the increasing incidents of violence and harassment against women and marginalized individuals in politics.

According to the MHRC, some of the disturbing incidents include the vandalism of vehicles belonging to opposition MPs Grace Kwelepeta and Lonnie Chijere Chirwa, as well as public harassment of female Malawi Congress Party (MCP) supporters in January.

Chikondi Chijozi



The Commission also highlighted online attacks, such as a Facebook post mocking a female United Transformation Movement (UTM) candidate with dwarfism.

The MHRC emphasized that these incidents are a clear violation of Malawi’s Constitution, which guarantees equal political participation for all citizens, regardless of gender or disability.

“No woman in politics and participating in the 2025 elections should suffer any form of violence,” the statement read. The Commission warned that such developments pose a serious threat to the country’s democratic values and must not be tolerated.

The MHRC’s condemnation is timely, given the upcoming general elections in September 2025.

With this in mind, the Commission stressed the importance of creating a peaceful and inclusive environment where all citizens, especially women and marginalized groups, can participate freely and without fear.

This call to action is crucial in ensuring that all Malawians can exercise their right to participate in the electoral process without intimidation or harassment.

The MHRC’s statement has been echoed by other organizations.
The need for accountability and impartial policing highlights the importance of law enforcement agencies prioritizing the safety and security of all citizens, particularly women and marginalized groups.

The MHRC’s condemnation of political violence against women and marginalized groups is a crucial step towards promoting a peaceful and inclusive electoral process in Malawi.

By holding perpetrators accountable and promoting a culture of respect and inclusivity, Malawi can ensure that all citizens can participate freely and without fear in the upcoming general elections.

Namadingo to headline Kabula Festival

By Shaffie A Mtambo

The highly anticipated Kabula Festival is just around the corner, and fans are in for a treat. Namadingo, one of Malawi’s most celebrated musicians, is set to headline the festival, taking place from June 6th to 7th at Echo’s Park in Chileka, Blantyre.

Organized by Kabula Diaries, the festival promises to be an unforgettable experience, with Namadingo’s energetic performance sure to get the crowd moving. Known for his unique blend of Afrobeats and local flavors.

Fans were eagerly awaiting the opportunity to see Namadingo perform live, belting out his hit songs like “Tuli”, “Mapephero”, and “Pelefekiti”, among others. With his charismatic stage presence and dedication to his craft.



The Kabula Festival has become a staple of Malawi’s music scene, bringing together artists, fans, and industry professionals.

This year’s edition promises to be bigger and better, with Namadingo’s headlining performance sure to draw in crowds from all over the country.

The festival is a celebration of music, art, and culture, and Namadingo’s headlining performance is just one of the many exciting aspects of the event. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see one of Malawi’s most talented artists perform live.

Muluzi unveils ‘business first’ strategy as roadmap to Malawi’s economic prosperity

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By Burnett Munthali

Leader of the United Democratic Front (UDF), Atupele Muluzi, is today holding a press briefing in Lilongwe where he is unveiling his Business First strategy, which he describes as a roadmap to Malawi’s prosperity.

This highly anticipated event marks a significant moment in Malawi’s political and economic discourse, as Muluzi seeks to position himself as a transformative leader focused on economic revival.

Muluzi



The venue in Lilongwe is abuzz with activity, with members of various media houses gathered to capture every detail of the address.

Political party leaders from across the spectrum have also graced the event, signaling the national relevance of the proposed strategy.

Notably, the briefing has attracted the presence of key stakeholders from the business sector, including entrepreneurs, industrial players, and representatives from trade and investment institutions.

This diverse attendance underscores the wide interest in Muluzi’s new direction for Malawi, particularly in the context of growing economic challenges and rising youth unemployment.

In his address, Atupele Muluzi describes the Business First strategy as a practical, inclusive, and forward-thinking roadmap that places economic growth, entrepreneurship, and private sector development at the heart of national development.

He argues that Malawi cannot achieve sustainable development through politics alone, but rather through sound economic policies that empower citizens to participate meaningfully in wealth creation.

According to Muluzi, the Business First approach prioritizes job creation, investment incentives, market reforms, and infrastructure development as the pillars of prosperity.

He emphasizes the need for government to create an enabling environment where businesses can thrive, and where local innovations are nurtured and exported to the global market.

Muluzi also highlights the urgency of restructuring Malawi’s economic planning to align with global economic shifts, particularly in technology, green energy, and digital trade.

He laments the current state of Malawi’s economy, citing high inflation, weakening currency, and poor industrial output as indicators that bold reforms are necessary.

The UDF leader calls for a new social contract between government, private sector, and citizens, based on transparency, accountability, and shared responsibility for growth.

He expresses confidence that the Business First strategy can be a game-changer for Malawi if implemented with political will and the active participation of all sectors.

Throughout his address, Muluzi maintains a tone of optimism, appealing to Malawians to rise above political divisions and focus on rebuilding the country’s economic foundation.

He pledges that under his leadership, economic growth will no longer be an abstract promise, but a measurable goal pursued with urgency and purpose.

The press briefing is ongoing, and updates will continue to follow as Atupele Muluzi elaborates on the policy details and responds to questions from the press and stakeholders.

Stay tuned for more comprehensive coverage.

CCAP Nkhoma Synod summons minister over unauthorized trip to visit Mutharika

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By Shaffie A Mtambo

The Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) Nkhoma Synod has summoned Reverend Tseka Chizinga to appear before the church trustees for a hearing scheduled for May 5, 2025.

According to a letter seen by 247 Malawi News and signed by Vasco Kachipapa, CCAP Nkhoma Synod General Secretary, Chizinga is accused of organizing a trip for some Nkhoma Synod clergies to visit former President Peter Mutharika at his Page House in Mangochi without the approval of the synod leadership.



Reverend Chizinga confirmed receiving the letter but stated that he will only attend the hearing if he can secure transportation.

The Nkhoma Synod’s General Secretary, Vasco Kachipapa, declined to comment on the matter, citing that it is an administrative issue that cannot be discussed publicly.

This development raises questions about the relationship between the CCAP Nkhoma Synod and its ministers, as well as the church’s stance on political engagements.

The hearing is set to take place on May 5, 2025, and will determine the next steps in the matter.

Police commissioner highlights distrust in high-density areas

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By Jones Gadama

Commissioner of Police for the South East region, Dr. Mlowoka Noel Kayira, has revealed that people living in high-density areas have little trust in the police compared to those residing in affluent areas. Dr. Kayira made this observation in an interview with Zodiak Online after being awarded a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Administration during the University of Malawi (UNIMA) graduation ceremony in Zomba.

According to Dr. Kayira, the public distrust stems from the police’s tendency to prioritize services for wealthy individuals while neglecting the poor. He noted that the police tend to respond more quickly to calls from affluent areas than to those from high-density areas, resulting in dissatisfaction with police work among residents in these areas.



Dr. Kayira’s observation is based on his PhD research, which focused on issues of community policing.

His study likely highlighted the importance of building trust between the police and the community, particularly in high-density areas where policing needs are often more pressing.

The police commissioner’s call for a change in mindset, behavior, and attitude among police officers and community police groups is a crucial step towards restoring public trust.

By acknowledging the existing disparities in police services, Dr. Kayira is paving the way for reforms that can help bridge the gap between the police and the community.

Dr. Kayira’s research and observations underscore the need for community policing strategies that prioritize the needs of all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status.

By adopting a more inclusive and responsive approach to policing, the Malawi Police Service can work towards building trust and confidence among the public, particularly in high-density areas.

The implications of Dr. Kayira’s findings are significant, as they highlight the need for police reform and community engagement. By addressing the root causes of public distrust, the police can improve their relationships with the community and provide more effective services to all citizens.

Dr. Mlowoka Noel Kayira’s observation on the distrust of police in high-density areas is a call to action for the Malawi Police Service.

His research and recommendations provide a valuable framework for reform and community engagement, which can help restore public trust and improve policing services in the country.

As the police service moves forward, it is essential that they prioritize the needs of all citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status, and work towards building a more inclusive and responsive policing system.