Police censures PP on Karonga violence

Malawi Police Service in the Northern Region have said political parties have the responsibilities of promoting political tolerance and coexistence and must desist from any form of violence.

“They are supposed to provide effective guidance and leadership to party youth wings and followers,”  Deputy Commissioner of Police Innocent Botomani said in statement on Wednesday.

The Police’s rebuke follows skirmishes that happened on Monday this week in the volatile Benghazi Karonga Central Constituency between ruling Peoples Party candidate Dr Cornelius Mwalwanda’s supporters and former deputy secretary general Frank Tumpale Mwenefumbo.

Botoman: No to political violence
Botoman: No to political violence

Mwalwanda supporters allegedly roughed up Mwenifumbo at Mlare Community ground where President rJoyce Banda was to board a Helicopter to Ngerenge for other engagements.She had earlier officially opened Ngara Admarc Ginnery.

The PP Youth morale tried to remove Mwenefumbo from the people that had gathered there and in the process, they tore his suit and punched him.

Mwenifumbo was fired from PP for contesting as an independent candidate after he lost in the party’s primaries to Mwalwanda, who is also Deputy Minister of Finance.

Police have not yet arrested anyone in connection with the incident despite saying they intervened to calm the tension between the two warring sides.

Bottomani said the Police shall carry out its mandate professionally without fear or favour and shall remain apolitical at all times.

“We warn perpetrators of political violence that such acts have far reaching effects and that no matter what happens and how long it takes, the arm of the law will catch up with them.

“We will ensure all perpetrators of political conflict and violence are dealt with accordingly and ensure that the wheels of justice are propelled, no one will be spared regardless of one’s standing in society,” Bottomani said.

He said the Police could not apportion blame on any side until they conclude investigations.

“Free, fair, transparent and credible elections are possible only if political role players practiced civilized and democratic principles. Political leaders must at all cost practice issue based campaign,” Bottomani said.

Addressing a rally at Baka Secondary School in the district on Monday afternoon, the President spoke highly against violence during this campaign period.

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