By Burnett Munthali
A video clip circulating widely on social media has sparked national outrage after an unidentified man was seen bragging about attacking supporters of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
In the clip, the man claims responsibility for targeting a minibus that was transporting DPP members from Ntchisi to Lilongwe.
These supporters were reportedly returning from a political rally organized by the DPP Vice President for the Central Region, Alfred Gangata.
While loading maize onto an ox cart in what appears to be a rural part of Dowa District, the man appears relaxed and unashamed as he boasts about the assault.
He is heard saying, “Norman Chisale amati adzateteza anthu a chipani cha DPP, koma dzulo tamuonetsa mbwadza. Kuno kwathu ku Dowa timatero—boma ndi lomweli.”
This statement loosely translates to: “Norman Chisale once claimed he would protect DPP members, but yesterday we showed him otherwise. Here in Dowa, that’s how we handle things—this is our government.”
The phrase “boma ndi lomweli,” a well-known slogan of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), strongly suggests that the man aligns himself with the ruling party.
The video has triggered strong condemnation from both civil society actors and ordinary citizens, who view it as a clear sign of deepening political intolerance and lawlessness.
Many have expressed concern that such violent rhetoric and actions are becoming normalized in Malawi’s political culture, especially in the run-up to the 2025 general elections.
Commentators are calling on the Malawi Police Service to immediately launch an investigation, identify the man, and bring him to justice.
Others have urged the MCP leadership to distance itself from such behavior and issue a public statement condemning violence by its supporters.
The incident has also revived memories of past electoral violence, raising fears that the nation may be sliding back into a cycle of politically motivated attacks and intimidation.
If left unchecked, analysts warn, such actions could erode democratic gains and threaten the safety of citizens participating in the political process.
As the country heads towards a critical election period, the video serves as a stark reminder of the need for tolerance, peaceful political engagement, and respect for the rule of law.
