In a democratic society, the health of our political business is critical. It reflects our collective values, aspirations, and the respect we have for one another, regardless of political affiliations. The recent events following President Lazarus Chakwera’s visit to Blantyre serve to indicate the DPP’s vowed inclination towards political violence and unrelenting efforts to agitate political opponents into retributive chaos.
But in a country where political violence has found a stage to manifest, onlookers will quickly conclude that the ruling party is a perpetrator. Perhaps the DPP knows this psychology and would like to exploit it to cast a dark image on the ruling party.
The rapturous welcome for President Chakwera by thousands in Blantyre stood as a testament to his enduring and upgrading support base in the region and signifies a collective yearning for a truly progressive leadership that President Chakwera offers. However, it is deeply troubling that immediately after this show of democratic expression, a group allegedly backed by opposition party officials resorted to despicable acts of harassment against women who had shown their loyalty to the President and the MCP.
Acts of political violence, particularly those targeting women, must not be tolerated. They reflect not only a significant failure in our political discourse but also a profound violation of humanity. The humiliation of women through public undressing loudly pronounces DPP’s zero respect for women as the same was rampant during the 2019 political campaign in the southern region. To say that this act undermines the fundamental rights embraced by civilized societies is perhaps an understament. It sends a chilling message to all citizens, particularly women, about their role and safety in political life where DPP is in the horizon.
We must acknowledge that the fabric of our democracy is woven with respect and dignity for all. Political leaders, and other community leaders such as Public Affairs Committee (PAC) and churche leaders regardless of their affiliations, must take a bold stand against these acts of violence and admonish DPP for these despicable acts while advancing a campaign for a culture of tolerance. They need to realize that their influence extends beyond political brawls; it shapes societal norms and values.
The National Advocacy Platform’s call for swift justice against those perpetuating violence is commendable. Yet, this alone is not enough. We must all rally together—citizens, political leaders, and civil society—to cultivate an environment where political dissent does not equate to personal attacks or violence.
Let us honor the legacy of our heroes, like John Chilembwe, whose struggle for dignity and justice helped forge the path to our modern democracy. It is our duty to ensure that their sacrifices were not in vain. We have to build a society that genuinely values human rights and fosters mutual respect among its citizens.
