MPs, political leaders seek answers on Namiwa arrest

Members of Parliament and political leaders yesterday demanded clarification from government over the arrest of human rights activist Sylvester Namiwa, who was detained on Thursday over what police described as the “publication of alleged false information”. Leader of the Opposition Simplex Chithyola-Banda questioned the basis of the arrest, saying he visited Namiwa at Lingadzi Police Station yesterday morning but waited about an hour before being allowed to see him. He alleged that the activist was not in good condition and had been denied food, urging Minister of Homeland Security Peter Mukhito to ensure Namiwa received basic necessities while in police custody.

“It seems Malawi is being turned into a police State. Police officers are being directed on what to do. I requested permission to pray for him, but I was denied because they said they had instructions that no one should pray for him,” Chithyola-Banda said.

Mwanza Central legislator Felix Njawala (UTM) also sought an explanation for the arrest. On Thursday evening, UTM president Dalitso Kabambe, who was denied access to Namiwa after visiting the police station, called for justice and transparency, saying the case raised serious human rights concerns. “The power of the State must be exercised to protect citizens, not to intimidate, victimise or silence those who exercise their constitutional freedoms,” Kabambe said, warning against creating the perception that State institutions are being used to suppress dissent.

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United Democratic Front president Atupele Muluzi, who also visited Namiwa, urged authorities to uphold the rule of law and respect the activist’s human rights. Responding in Parliament, Mukhito dismissed claims that Namiwa had been denied food or bedding. Referring to Chithyola-Banda’s own past arrest, he said the activist had been given an opportunity to access food.

He said police would question Namiwa over statements allegedly made in the public domain and would either release him or take him before a court within the time required by law. “Police will take due process to question and get information from Namiwa. If indeed we find that he is required to be brought before a court of law, that will be done within the constitutional mandate of the Malawi Police Service,” Mukhito said.

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