MHRC divided over calls for suspension of anti-Ansah demonstrations

Divisions have emerged within Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) over a statement issued recently asking the Human Right Defenders Coalition (HRDC) to consider suspending the ongoing demonstrations.

On Monday, MHRC through its Secretary David Nungu expressed worry over the ongoing demonstrations.

“The commission appeals to the organisers of the demonstrations, HRDC to consider calling off the demonstrations for now and allow room for a reflection meeting with the commission,” said Nungu in the statement.

But one of the Commissioners, Ombudsman Martha Chuzuma said the statement to call off the ongoing protests did not come from the commissioners.

“Statements of such nature originate from MHRC commissioners. This has not come from us. I also saw it on social media platforms,” said Chizuma.

She said no one at the Secretariat had the powers to issue the statement on behalf of the commission.

Effort to talk to Nungu proved futile.