LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The HRDC National Adhoc Committee has come out strongly against the current provisional leadership of the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC), demanding immediate action to restore legitimacy and constitutional order within the organization.
Speaking during a press briefing held on Monday in Lilongwe, the Committee underscored its commitment to accountability, transparency and democratic governance within HRDC.
The Committee expressed deep concern that the provisional HRDC Governing Body, led by Michael Kaiyatsa, continues to operate despite a formal petition and a 14 days ultimatum demanding that it halt operations until a lawful Annual General Meeting (AGM) is conducted.
According to the Adhoc Committee, the ultimatum was issued to safeguard democratic principles and ensure that members across all regions of Malawi are given the opportunity to elect legitimate leadership through a General Assembly.
The Committee further warned the provisional leadership against issuing press statements or making decisions on behalf of HRDC without proper consultation and endorsement from its general membership.
The statement was signed by Henderson Mhango, Chairperson of the HRDC National Adhoc Committee.
In a firm directive, the Adhoc Committee has cautioned the current governing body to immediately comply with the ultimatum and convene a General Assembly without further delay.
It stressed that the provisional leadership is operating without a clear mandate from members and therefore lacks legitimacy to act on behalf of the Coalition.
The Committee also advised the current leadership to cease representing HRDC in any official capacity until a lawful electoral process is conducted to renew its mandate.
The Adhoc Committee signaled its readiness to seek court intervention should the provisional governing body fail to call for the AGM within the stipulated timeframe.
The Committee said legal action would be aimed at protecting the integrity, legality and credibility of HRDC as a national human rights institution.
Beyond internal governance, the Adhoc Committee also weighed in on the 2026 State of the Nation Address delivered by President Arthur Peter Mutharika on Friday.
The Committee noted with interest the President’s focus on reducing maize prices, economic recovery, the fight against corruption, industrialization and the restructuring of the Mega Farms programme to enhance productivity.
While commending the policy direction toward fiscal discipline, improved service delivery and social protection, the Committee emphasized that such commitments must translate into tangible results for Malawians.
It warned public officers, controlling officers and implementing agencies to faithfully execute the development agenda outlined in the SONA, stating that failure to do so would undermine national progress and erode public trust.
The HRDC National Adhoc Committee reaffirmed its dedication to defending human rights, strengthening democratic governance and restoring institutional accountability both within HRDC and across Malawi.