By Jones Gadama
A peaceful protest by civil servants in Lilongwe turned violent when a group of youths, believed to be from MCP youth wing, armed with panga knives, wooden clubs, and hoe handles, chased the demonstrators away and hacked some of them with panga knives.
The civil servants were protesting a 20 percent salary increment agreed upon by the government and the Civil Servants Trade Union, which they deemed insufficient.
The protesters, who had gathered at the Memorial Tower in Area 18, intended to march to Parliament to deliver a petition demanding a 44 percent pay rise, as well as a 200 percent increase in transport and special allowances.
However, their plans were foiled when the group of youths, some wearing masks, emerged from the Botanic Gardens side and began chasing them.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with protesters running for their lives and the youths wielding their weapons menacingly. “It was like a war zone,” said one eyewitness. “I saw people running and screaming, and the youths were chasing them with knives and clubs.”
The police were quick to respond, but their efforts to restore order were initially unsuccessful. “We did our best to contain the situation, but it was difficult,” said peter Kalaya National police spokesperson. “We are still investigating the incident and will take action against those responsible,” he added.
The Civil Servants Trade Union condemned the violence, saying it was “unacceptable and unfortunate.” “We had organized a peaceful protest to express our grievances, but it was disrupted by a group of thugs,” said the union’s secretary-general adding that, “We will not be intimidated and will continue to fight for our rights.”
The government has also condemned the violence, saying it was “committed to maintaining law and order.” “We understand the concerns of the civil servants, but violence is not the solution,” said Moses kunkuyu a government spokesperson. “We will engage with the union to find a peaceful resolution.”
The incident has raised concerns about the growing trend of violence in Malawi’s politics. “This is a worrying development,” said a political analyst Moses Shumba.
He added, “It shows that some people are willing to use violence to achieve their goals, which is unacceptable.”
The police have arrested several suspects in connection with the violence and are still investigating the incident.
The civil servants’ union has vowed to continue its protests, but has promised to do so peacefully.
