In a letter released to Media the CSOs are informing Government that the scheduled demonstrations are a go. Below is the letter:
On behalf of the listed organizations, we write to notify your office about the planned demonstrations in line with section 96 [1] of the Police Act [2010] which requires the conveners of the demonstrations or protests to give notice of not less that forty-eight hours [48 hrs]. These demonstrations are in protest of the unwarranted funding from NAC of HIV and AIDS funds to organizations that are not meant to receive such funding, and the general decay of the state of governance in Malawi.
It is therefore expected that a petition articulating pressing issues and their corresponding demands will be presented to the Chief Executive Officer. It should however be noted that demonstrations in Lilongwe are part of the national wide demonstrations also covering Blantyre, Zomba, Mzuzu and Karonga where the same issues and petitions will be presented on the same day. These protests will be undertaken by Malawians from all sections of society including the affected constituency.
We trust, Sir, that by this notice, the relevant security organs of the government will take their rightful role as provided for in the Republican Constitution, and further, in accordance with section 40 [2] [d] in respect of prevention of obstruction on occasion of public assemblies, processions or demonstrations on the public roads or streets.
The Leadership would also like those who will match that the dressing colour during the demonstrations shall be red. Clothes/t-shirts with HIV/AIDS messages shall also be encouraged to be worn during the day.
To ensure a peaceful demonstrations, we shall continue to engage with the Malawi Police and relevant district authorities. We are determined to comply to the constitution of the Republic of Malawi and the Police Act on matters of right to demonstration, freedom of assembly and freedom of expression mindful of the constitution as the supreme law of the land.
“Every person shall have the right to assemble and demonstrate with others peacefully and unarmed” -Section 38 and “Every person shall have the right to freedom of expression” – Section 35.
