By Edwin Mauluka

The former ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has come under scrutiny for showing support to individuals accused of involvement in pre-election political violence ahead of the September 16 polls.

Police say 17 suspects are currently in custody in connection with the violence, which targeted civil society activists and opposition supporters.

“Police continue to intensify investigations into violent incidents that resulted in physical attacks and destruction of property,” said Deputy Public Relations Officer Superintendent Alfred Chimthere.

According to authorities, the perpetrators were armed with weapons including pangas. Some of the suspects have already appeared in court, facing charges such as arson, malicious damage, grievous harm, theft, and robbery.

MCP Publicity Secretary Jessie Kabwila has been seen attending court sessions and speaking with the suspects. On Wednesday, she issued a statement calling for fair trials and condemning what she termed “abuse of authority” following the re-arrest of several suspects shortly after being granted bail.

“MCP calls upon the Malawi Human Rights Commission and the Office of the Ombudsman to independently investigate reports that six suspects were allegedly tortured while in custody on the night of November 3,” Kabwila said.

Kabwila described the cases as politically motivated, accusing the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of using the justice system to target opponents while failing to address Malawi’s worsening living conditions.

“The government should focus on providing basic necessities like fuel, electricity, and water,” she said.

Shortages of the essentials Kabwila mentioned, along with the rising cost of living, contributed to voter frustration that led to the MCP’s ouster in the September elections.