By Edgar Naitha
Anti-violence demonstrations organized by Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Central Region Vice President, Alfred Gangata, have been suspended following consultations with civil society leaders over security concerns for candidates sitting this year’s Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations.
A joint statement signed by Gangata — in his capacity as a concerned citizen — along with Benedicto Kondowe of the Civil Society Education Coalition (CSEC) and Robert Mkwezalamba of the Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC), confirmed the suspension of the planned protests.
The statement emphasized the need for authorities to show full commitment to addressing violence and urged all political actors to continue denouncing it.
The signatories called on the Inspector General of Police and the Commander of the Malawi Defence Force (MDF) to convene a multi-stakeholder meeting aimed at finding sustainable solutions to political violence, particularly in the aftermath of the unrest that occurred on June 26, 2025.
Also present during the discussions were other civil society leaders including Limbani Nsapato, Agape Khombe, and Amon Lukhele.
Political parties have been encouraged to focus on issue-based campaigning, refrain from spreading disinformation or engaging in character assassination, and instead promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
The media was also urged to uphold responsible and ethical reporting and avoid sensationalism.