As public dissatisfaction over Malawi’s rising insecurity continues to mount, President Lazarus Chakwera faces renewed criticism for his inaction regarding the leadership of the country’s security forces.
Calls have intensified for Chakwera to relieve both Inspector General of Police Merlyn Yolamu and Malawi Defence Force (MDF) Commander General Paul Valentino Phiri of their duties, following what citizens and civil society groups describe as their “consistent failure” to protect Malawians from growing lawlessness, violent protests, and rising crime.
Meanwhile, in neighbouring South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa has taken decisive action by placing Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on immediate leave of absence. This followed damning revelations by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who alleged that powerful criminal syndicates have deeply infiltrated South Africa’s criminal justice system.
Ramaphosa addressed the South African nation on Sunday evening, stressing the need to restore trust in law enforcement and ensure accountability at the highest levels.
“We cannot allow criminal elements to undermine the foundations of our democracy. This matter is being treated with the seriousness it deserves,” said the South African leader.
The contrast between Ramaphosa’s swift intervention and Chakwera’s prolonged silence has not gone unnoticed in Malawi. On social media and various radio talk shows, Malawians are demanding similar leadership and accountability.
“While South Africa is taking action against compromised security leadership, our President remains silent as citizens continue to live in fear. If the Inspector General and the MDF Commander have lost public confidence, the President must act decisively,” said Chimwemwe Banda, a resident of Santhe in Kasungu.
The recent violent protests in Lilongwe, where police were heavily criticised for failing to prevent armed groups from injuring civilians, have only added fuel to the fire. The Public Affairs Committee (PAC), Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR), and other advocacy groups have publicly urged Chakwera to overhaul the leadership of the country’s security agencies.
So far, Chakwera has remained silent.
As pressure continues to build, the Malawian leader finds himself at a crossroads either respond to the people’s demands or risk further eroding public confidence in his administration.
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