Mukhito defends Chisale over threat to whip opposition supporters

Malawi’s Minister of Homeland Security, Peter Mukhito, has come to the defence of his deputy, Norman Chisale, after the latter was accused of threatening to “whip” members of the opposition UTM Party.

Mukhito, who is also secretary general of the governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), said Chisale’s remarks should be considered in their full context, rather than through isolated clips or political interpretation.

He said while the DPP did not condone political violence, intimidation or threats against citizens because of their political affiliation, Chisale should be given the opportunity to clarify and justify his remarks.

Mukhito said: “If any statement was capable of being understood as encouraging violence, then it should be clarified and, where necessary, withdrawn.

“Political leaders carry a special responsibility to use language that promotes peace, restraint and mutual respect.”

He added that any decision on the appointment or removal of a deputy minister rested with the President, and was not a matter for UTM or the DPP secretary general.

The remarks followed a demand from UTM Party for Chisale to apologise and withdraw his threat.

Chisale, who is also the DPP’s director of youth, made the comments at a rally in Ntcheu at the weekend, telling the gathering that he had sought permission from traditional leaders to whip UTM Party members in the district.

The comments were captured in a video clip that subsequently circulated online.

UTM Secretary general Willet Kalonga said the party condemned the remarks, describing them as part of a pattern of conduct by Chisale that he said fell short of the standards expected of a Cabinet minister.

He said: “Such repeated conduct creates a troubling impression that falls far below the standards of restraint, responsibility and etiquette expected of a Cabinet minister and a holder of public office. No one is above the law.”

Kalonga cited Sections 39 and 40 of the Constitution, which guarantee freedom of movement and the right to participate in political activities, arguing that a public officer with a duty to protect those rights should not intimidate people on account of their political affiliation.

Chisale also serves as MP for Ntcheu Central East.