13 PEOPLE ARRESTED IN MZUZU FOR DEMONSTRATING AGAINST MUTHARIKA

Police in Mzuzu are keeping in custody 13 people for allegedly holding Anti-President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika’s demonstrations.

The 13, under Mzuzu Youth Association (MYA), were arrested on allegations that they did not have consent from authorities to hold the vigil at Mzuzu Civic Office.

The vigil was meant to force president Mutharika to address hunger situation, economic problems and governance issues affecting the country.

Before the protestors could hold the vigil, police intercepted them at Katoto Secondary football ground where they had assembled to march to the Civic offices.

The police also impounded a coffin draped in Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) cloth, red overalls and a dog that the protesters were to use at the vigil to signify that the country “has gone to the dogs”.

The coffin is said to symbolised demise of the economy.

Northern Region Police spokesperson Maurice Chapola confirmed of the arrest in an interview with the press.

According to Chapola, MYA chairperson Mervin Nxumayo wrote police and Mzuzu City Council (MCC) calling off the vigil and stating that anyone who goes ahead to hold the vigil will be doing so in their personal capacity hence the arrest.

Meanwhile human right activist campaigner Billy Malaya has called for the immediate release of the said people.