MHRC to research on albino killings

Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) says it intends to conduct research to determine factors behind the belief that organs of persons with albinism can bring wealth.

MHRC chairperson Justin Dzonzi said the research would help formulate specific, long-term interventions to address the abductions and killings of persons with albinism.

He was speaking on Thursday during a stakeholders’ review meeting that the Malawi Network Against Trafficking (MNAT) organised at Sunbird Capital in Lilongwe.

“It is obvious there is a syndicate and therefore, we need to find out who is sending people to get organs of persons with albinism and why people are willing to kill their fellow human beings,” Dzonzi said.

He said it was only by identifying the root of the problem that the nation could deal with the malpractice.

He said his organisation is working with the police and other State organs to provide legal assistance to prosecute those engaging in albino abductions and killings.

“We also provide material information because the issue sometimes gets difficult. So MHRC provides technical assistance and legal advice to prosecutors on how best they can deal with these issues,” Dzonzi said.