LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) wants Homeland Security Minister, Ken Zikhale-Ng’oma, MP, and the Inspector General (IG) for the Malawi Police Service (MPS) Merlyn to appear before the Parliamentary committee on Security over the country’s security lapse.
CDEDI says the duo needs to justify to Malawians why they deserve to continue drawing taxpayers’ money from the public purse when it is apparent that they do not have any clue whatsoever to curb the current security breakdown.
In a letter dated September 26, 2023, signed by CDEDI Executive Director Sylvester Namiwa addressing Chairperson of the Defence and Security Parliamentary Committee, Ralph Jooma observes that the recent spate of killings in Lilongwe is a problematic matter needs urgent attention.
“Malawians are their own witnesses on how dangerous it has become to live in this country. Almost every citizen has been affected directly or indirectly by the security breakdown. The climax of it all was three cases of cold-blood murders of Coca-Cola Beverages Sales Manager Allan Witika, a lady known as Agnes Katengeza, and another known as Mr. Jacob Msokera, within a space of five days.
“Apart from scaring away potential investors, the total security breakdown is counterproductive since no one is sure of what would happen to their own lives and property, as a result, the citizens are living in fear, hence their lack of concentration on anything,” reads part of the letter.
“CDEDI is requesting your committee to invoke its constitutional powers to summon both the Homeland Security Minister, Hon Ken Zikhale-Ng’oma, MP and the Inspector General (IG) for the Malawi Police Service (MPS) Madam Merlyn Yolamu, to appear before the committee to justify to Malawians on why they deserve to continue drawing tax payers’ money from the public purse when it is apparent that they do not have everyone counts.
“Last but not least, going by the situation on the ground, it is our humble appeal that this important matter should be given the priority and prominence it deserves or else we will be forced to take action,” appeals Namiwa.
But in response, Malawi National Police spokesperson Peter Kalaya said the law enforcers are zeroing in to arrest the assassins.
“Malawi Police Service (MPS) wishes to assure Malawians that it is zeroing in and making positive headway to arrest suspects of Lilongwe’s two infamous murder incidents recorded in the past week in which victims’ bodies were found stuck in their vehicles.
“MPS is, among others, meeting and interviewing relatives, workmates, and friends of the deceased to gather information on the cases,” assures Kalaya.
Appeals police Publicist, “The Service thus, calls upon all to cooperate with it by availing themselves when needed and opening up in providing the information sought. In addition, MPS is carrying out targeted intelligence-led operations and has intensified its visibility, both in cities and rural areas, to flush out all criminals.
“MPS pledges to continue working diligently to keep the country safe and secure for all and calls upon every Malawian to join in the fight against crime by sharing information about criminals in their areas”.
