MCP Employs Violence as a Political Strategy

The history of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) is characterized by violence and undemocratic tendencies. MCP has been involved in various incidents of violence throughout its history including in recent times after the multiparty dispensation.

During the Post-Independence era in 1960s, the MCP, led by Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda, used violence against Jehovah’s Witnesses who refused to support the party or buy party membership cards. This led to destruction of property, detention, torture, and forced exile for many Witnesses. Many political opponents were killed others ran for their lives into exile.

Recently, MCP operatives have been accused of attacking opposition supporters, including those of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). In one incident, suspected MCP operatives attacked DPP supporters while getting ready to conduct what they call DPP Blue Parade at Mbowe in Lilongwe, leaving several injured and vehicles damaged. The culprit who were arrested were released within an hour, sparking national-wide concerns about selective justice.

All along President Lazarus Chakwera has been mam on this issue failing to strongly condemn violence and ensure accountability. The Malawi Peace and Unity Commission has expressed concern over rising political violence, emphasizing the need for citizens to promote peace and respect democratic foundations.

These incidents have negative impact on democratic principles and social harmony in Malawi. This is a clear indication of authoritarian tendencies by the Malawi Congress Party MCP leadership which believes in suppression of dissent. They expect loyalty and support from citizens, generally with punishment for non-compliance. There is lack of accountability for inadequate prosecution of perpetrators, leading to a culture of impunity which is the case right now in Malawi as the country is counting down to the general elections slated for 16th September, 2025.

For instance, on Sunday, 11th September, 2025, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) supporters were attacked by suspected Malawi Congress Party (MCP) members while traveling to a rally in Mponela, Dowa District. Similar incidents have been reported in other parts of the country like Blantyre, Chikwawa and other districts highlighting a worrying trend of political intolerance.

There are concerns about the police’s ability to maintain law and order, with some perpetrators being released without charges. The Inspector General of Police has met with youth leaders from 18 political parties to curb violence, but accountability remains a challenge.

DPP Vice President Hon. Alfred Gangata has registered his concerns saying party vehicles have been torched, sounds of guns were heard and a good number of party members have been injured with some referred to Kamuzu Central Hospital for medical attention. “We have been attacked by suspected MCP operatives here at Mponera Trading Centre in Dowa on our away to a DPP rally in the district” He said.

There are certainly consequences of political violence if left undressed especially by President Chakwera and all other political leaders because it undermines democratic principles and freedom of expression.

Political violence creates a climate of fear, suppressing voter turnout and legitimacy of elections which has been the case with the Malawi Congress Party MCP ever since it was founded in the 1960s. In fact, currently there have been several arrests of those that are criticizing the current government.

Obviously if Chakwera in noncommittal on this matter, violence will threaten national stability, disrupts investment and harms employment opportunities and economic growth let alone compromise the forthcoming general elections.

There is need for consented effort by political leaders led by President Lazarus Chakwera to call for Action by condemning violence, arresting culprits and promote peaceful dialogue. All law enforcement agencies especially the Malawi Police must act impartially and protect all citizens’ rights as stipulated in the constitution. MCP has proven that old habits die hard. Everybody believed that the MCP has transfomed from its old ways of doing things but it is true that old habits die hard.

Malawi electoral Commission MEC must ensure all parties have equal space to conduct activities without fear. Otherwise the country will be up in fire and this will not benefit nobody in the end.

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