LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Central Region vice-president Alfred Gangata has announced the postponement of the planned anti-violence demonstrations initially scheduled for Friday in Lilongwe.
The demonstrations, which Gangata was expected to lead, have now been rescheduled to a date after the conclusion of the ongoing Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) examinations.
Speaking in an interview earlier today, Gangata disclosed that the decision followed a two-day dialogue with members of the civil society who requested a temporary suspension of the protests.
Gangata said the talks were fruitful and based on mutual respect and concern for the academic welfare of students currently sitting for their national examinations.
“We have postponed the demonstrations until students are done sitting for the examinations. We will hold the protests after the exams,” said Gangata.
He emphasized that while the right to protest is constitutionally protected, he felt compelled to prioritise the future of young Malawians who are working hard to succeed in their studies.
“I am a youthful politician and many of the candidates in the exams are youth as well. I decided that I should not be selfish but I need to support them regardless of my right to holding peaceful demonstrations,” he added.
Gangata had earlier announced on Monday that he would lead the demonstrations to condemn the rising incidents of violence and intimidation, particularly in Lilongwe.
He expressed concern that such acts were infringing on the rights of citizens to engage in peaceful demonstrations, which are a hallmark of democratic governance.
The demonstrations, according to Gangata, are a response to the growing pattern of threats and harassment targeting individuals and groups who wish to express dissent through peaceful means.
He stressed that the right to protest must be preserved and protected by all democratic institutions, warning that failure to do so risks silencing the voice of the people.
While the demonstrations have been delayed, Gangata reiterated his commitment to fighting for justice and democratic freedoms through peaceful and organized civic action.
The civil society organizations involved in the dialogue have welcomed Gangata’s decision as a sign of responsible leadership that places the interests of the nation’s youth above political expediency.
The rescheduled date for the protests will be announced after the completion of the MSCE examinations.