Malawi association CAMA warns protest bans could fuel violence
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Malawi24
The Consumers Association of Malawi, led by John Kapito, warns that banning peaceful demonstrations could turn social frustration into violence and destruction. It calls on the government to allow citizens to exercise their constitutional right to protest, according to Malawi24.
The Consumers Association of Malawi (CAMA) warns that blocking peaceful demonstrations could turn public frustration into violence and destruction of property, reports Malawian media outlet Malawi24. Its executive director, John Kapito, says depriving citizens of space to express their grievances takes away a constitutional right and closes an essential channel for demanding accountability from the authorities.
According to John Kapito, Malawians are already facing a high cost of living, shortages of foreign currency and fuel, and unemployment, making it all the more necessary for the government to listen to their concerns. He links damage seen during previous demonstrations to the closure of legitimate channels of expression, and considers a peaceful demonstration an opportunity for dialogue.
The CAMA official also praised the experience of the current head of the Malawian police, Luhanga, in managing and negotiating with demonstrators, and called on politicians to allow the Malawi Police Service to operate without intimidation or interference. He urged police officers to remain professional and impartial while protecting both demonstrators and property, and called on the government to allow citizens to exercise their constitutional right to peaceful assembly, arguing that allowing a peaceful demonstration costs less than repairing the damage caused by a violent protest.
