Govt links hacking of an albino woman in Mzimba to fresh elections

The government of Malawi has linked the recent attack of an albino woman in Mzimba to the fresh elections the country is expected to hold following nullification of the May 21 by the Constitutional Court on February 3, 2020.

On Saturday night, unknown thug hacked the toes of 92 year old woman identified as in Mzimba district Tafwauli Ngoma.

In a statement released by Minister of Information, Civic Education and Communication Technology Mark Bottoman condemned the attack.

“Elsewhere in the region, violence against people with albinism has been linked to elections. Although there has been no study in Malawi, Government is compelled to conclude that the attack in Mzimba could be part of calculated violence as we may be going towards fresh presidential election ordered by the Constitutional Court on 3rd February, 2020.

“Government has directed Malawi Police Service to hunt for and arrest the suspected criminals within the shortest period possible. Further, Government would like to request people of Mzimba to help Police in the hunt for the suspected criminals. It is the view of Government that there is a chain of people involved in the criminal act,” reads part of the statement.

He added: “Our brothers and sisters with albinism are full citizens of Malawi and must never be subjected to suffering during election period or at any other time. Government would like to warn all politicians and political party supporters against attacking people with albinism to create a sense of insecurity for political reasons. Malawi Police will intensify security of people with albinism, especially now as we may be going towards fresh elections. Community members, led by traditional and other opinion leaders, are called to ensure the safety of people with albinism in their areas.”

The victim is currently at Jenda rural hospital receiving treatment.