A civil society watchdog, the Focused Minds and People Driven Initiative (FMPDI), has accused the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of allegedly sponsoring protests and activists in an attempt to destabilise the government ahead of Malawi’s general elections in September.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lilongwe, FMPDI claimed that the opposition party is manipulating civil society organisations (CSOs) to advance its political agenda.
FMPDI Executive Director Fredrick Billy Malata denounced the alleged actions as “reckless” and harmful to national unity.
“Using CSOs as tools for political manipulation undermines their credibility and endangers the safety of Malawians,” said Malata.
He warned that politically motivated protests could further strain Malawi’s fragile economy, citing recent demonstrations that disrupted businesses and fueled public anxiety.
On calls for the resignation of Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja and CEO Andrew Mpesi, Malata described the timing as “ill-advised.” He emphasised the need to prioritise a peaceful and transparent electoral process.
FMPDI also addressed demands for the dismissal of the Minister of Homeland Security and the Inspector General of Police. The organisation urged stakeholders to pursue dialogue rather than confrontation, stressing the use of institutional mechanisms to resolve disputes.
“Demonstrations should not be used as political weapons,” the group said in a statement. “Such tactics risk being perceived as efforts to unseat the government rather than raise legitimate civic concerns.”
Malata attributed the accusations to leaked audio recordings, which allegedly expose coordinated plans to stage anti-government demonstrations and press conferences across the country.
His remarks follow violent clashes that disrupted a planned protest by Citizens for Credible Elections (CfCE) in Lilongwe. The protest, which demanded the resignation of MEC officials over alleged incompetence and delays in rolling out a new electronic voting system, turned violent when unidentified individuals armed with machetes attacked demonstrators.
Several vehicles, including a minibus reportedly carrying protesters, were set ablaze, and multiple injuries were reported. Eyewitnesses claimed security forces failed to intervene during the attack.
With the September 16 general elections drawing near, FMPDI and other civil society groups are calling on political leaders to act with restraint and prioritise peace.
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