LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s Civil Society Education Coalition (CSEC) says senseless opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) central region Vice President Alfred Gangata’s planned demonstrations in Lilongwe is unnecessary.
CSEC has therefore asked Gangata to reverse his decision as the move might affect 2025 Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations that have just commenced on Tuesday, July 1.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday and signed by CSEC board chair and Executive Director Limbani Nsapato and Benedicto Kondowe respectively says Gangata’s July 4 demonstrations must be stopped.
“While we fully recognize and uphold the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and demonstration, we also wish to categorically underscore that the right to education is equally sacrosanct and must not be compromised.
“The Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations commenced today, marking a crucial milestone in the academic journeys of thousands of learners across the country,” reads CSEC statement in part.
CSEC observes, “These examinations are not just a rite of passage—they are the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and hope for a better future. Any action that disrupts or threatens the integrity of this process risks robbing students of their right to a fair and safe learning environment, with consequences that may last a lifetime.
“We have witnessed in previous years how demonstrations regardless of intent held during
examination periods have resulted in exam cancellations, exposure of learners to violence and
psychological trauma, and deepened inequalities between learners in disrupted areas and those
in more stable zones. These outcomes are not abstract; they are real, measurable, and profoundly damaging”.
The grouping adds, “CSEC therefore issues this urgent and respectful appeal to all organizers, political leaders, and civil society actors to exercise our freedoms responsibly.
“Let us not allow our legitimate civic struggles to come at the cost of children’s futures”.
CSEC demands, “We further urge the following:That the planned demonstration on 4th July be postponed to a date outside the exam window to avoid any disruption to learners.
“That government, local councils, and security agencies designate the examination period as a ‘Protected Academic Window’, prohibiting public gatherings within a reasonable radius of exam centres; That all stakeholders, including media houses and political actors, promote educationsensitive civic engagement that prioritizes the welfare of learners.”
The grouping concludes, “CSEC stands ready to engage with all relevant parties to ensure that both the right to education and the right to peaceful assembly are respected and protected in a manner that does not pit one against the other.
“Let us be clear, students must not become collateral damage in political disputes. The dreams of Malawi’s youth must never be jeopardized by avoidable disruptions. We owe them more. We owe them peace, safety, and a fair shot at their future. Education is not a privilege—it is a right. Let us all defend it”.
Gangata is currently in court answering charges against holding fake MSCE certificate.