Dave Malamula, a known political operative allegedly aligned with the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), is at the centre of a growing controversy over acts of intimidation against opposition members.
According to CCTV footage, credible reports, and eyewitness accounts, Malamula allegedly vandalised a vehicle belonging to Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) legislator, Grace Kwelepeta. The incident occurred within the secure premises of the Parliament Building, raising serious concerns about security and the rule of law in Malawi’s legislative environment.
The damage reportedly involved deflation and destruction of the vehicle’s tires. Months after the incident, the damaged car remains parked within Parliament grounds, as a stark reminder of unresolved political tensions and unanswered questions about accountability.
What has fueled further public outrage is the claim that police officers were present during the incident but allegedly failed to intervene or apprehend the suspect. This alleged inaction has been interpreted by some political commentators as a reflection of selective justice and impunity within state security institutions.
Despite multiple reports, sources indicate that MP Gilly Kwelepeta has yet to receive assistance or any meaningful response from law enforcement agencies. Meanwhile, Dave Malamula is said to continue moving freely in Lilongwe, allegedly engaging in further acts of political intimidation against perceived opponents.
The case is not an isolated incident. Malawi has witnessed an increase in politically motivated violence since the 2020 court-ordered fresh presidential election. Analysts note that while the Tonse Alliance government promised a new era of democratic governance, reports of harassment and intimidation—particularly against opposition parties—continue to surface.
Civil society organisations have repeatedly warned that the normalisation of political thuggery undermines Malawi’s democratic gains. “What we are seeing is an alarming culture of impunity, where perpetrators aligned with ruling parties act above the law,” said one governance expert who requested anonymity.
The failure to address such incidents sends a dangerous message about accountability and equality before the law. It also raises questions about the impartiality of the police service, which is constitutionally mandated to maintain law and order without bias.
If these allegations are proven true, the incident represents a serious breach of democratic norms and could erode public confidence in state institutions.
As the damaged vehicle sits idle at Parliament, symbolic of stalled justice, many Malawians are calling for immediate action. There are demands for the Inspector General of Police to launch an impartial investigation and for Parliament to review security protocols on its premises.
Until these questions are answered, the case of Dave Malamula and MP Gilly Kwelepeta will remain a litmus test for Malawi’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law.
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