Civil Society gives JB 30 days to publicise 20 July commission of inquiry findings

Members of the civil Society in Malawi on Friday petitioned President Joyce Banda to address several issues surrounding the July 20 pro-democracy protests.

The rights campaigners want President Banda to declare the day a public holiday as a dignified way of remembering the victims of the pro-democracy protests..

They also want Banda to make findings of the July 20 commission of inquiry public within 30 days to honour the victims.

In addition, the rights activists want President Banda to deal with the outstanding issues which were presented to the government in the 20 point petition

They presented the petition during the memorial service of the 20 people killed during the protests last year.

The event marking the one year anniversary was held at Mzuzu stadium.

Executive director of the Council for Non Governmental Organisation in Malawi, Voice Mhone said the day should be a reminder to president Banda that good democratic principles, a respect of rule of law as well as the respect of individual rights are a prerequisite of the country’s democracy.

Meanwhile, the president is expected to meet families of the victims on Saturday.

The president, who lead the memorial service reiterated her order that all people involved in the 20 deaths be prosecuted.