MCP supporters arrested in Lilongwe last week released on bail

Lilongwe Magistrate Court has granted bail to 18 Malawi Congress Party (MCP) supporters arrested last week during the protest against the outcome of the May 21 tripartite election which saw Malawi Electoral commission (MEC) declaring President Peter Mutharika a winner.

On Thursday, MCP supporters were involved in running battles with the Police at the Party’s headquarters and police sprayed teargas at the angry MCP supporters.

The teargas also affected MCP President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera who was in a meeting with US Ambassador to Malawi Virginia Palmer.  

The fracas led to arrest of 18 MCP supporters including newly-elected Lilongwe City Centre parliamentarian Alfred Jiya.

Magistrate Viva Nyimba granted bail to MCP supporters after charging them with a case of inciting violence.

Before releasing them, Nyimba demanded a bailbond of 10, 000 surities each.

Chakwera on Sunday visited the supporters at Maula Prison.