Chakwera Raises Rule of Law Concerns Over Arrests of MCP Officials
Published on January 20, 2026 at 5:00 PM by Edgar Naitha
Former president Lazarus Chakwera has raised concerns with President Peter Mutharika over what he describes as a deterioration in the rule of law following the recent arrests of Malawi Congress Party (MCP) officials.
In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Gift Nankhuni, Chakwera alleges that police actions such as searches, intimidation, and arrests are politically motivated and aimed at opposition figures.
He argues that these actions violate due process and constitutional protections.
Chakwera cited the detention of MCP Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda, who was held for over a month without charge or bail.
He noted that the High Court later ruled the police had acted in violation of the Constitution.
Chakwera has since called on the international community, civil society, faith leaders, and Malawians to remain vigilant against what he terms abuse of police power, while the statement does not indicate whether President Mutharika has responded.
