US denies ‘plot’ to topple Mutharika: DPP says accused should ‘prove innocence’

American officials have denied participating in a plot for regime change  in Malawi in reported  scheme for unseating President Peter Mutharika and have leader of opposition Lazarus Chakwera take over.

Chakwera is said to be in state intelligence notes uncovering coup and that plotters have set June 2016 as the deadline to have President Mutharika toppled.

The allegations also implicate international community including United States diplomat Virginia Palmer as aiding the plot for hosting meetings at her official residence.

But Edward J. Monster, Public Affairs Officer at the U.S. Embassy dismissed the claims and accusations, saying there is no iota of truth.

“The accusations are completely false,” said Moster.

“  The U.S. and Malawi enjoy a strong and productive relationship and we intend to continue working closely together for the benefit of the Malawian people,” he added.

The United States says it only supports political transitions that are democratic, constitutional, peaceful and legal.

Meanwhile, ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) spokesman, Francis Kasaila said the governing party expects those names in the alleged “coup” plot should prove their innocence.

“Let them come out and exonerate themselves,” said Kasaila, who is also Minister of Transport and government leader in parliament.

Kasaila admitted during Daybreak Malawi program aired on Capital Radio on Wednesday that the “coup” allegations were serious and government will not take them lightly but follow leads.

But Malawi Congress Party (MCP) said allegations that its leader plans to overthrow Mutharika’s government is “fiction.”

President Mutharika and his government have in recent months been receiving criticism over the country’s continued economic hardships.