PP governor assaulted

People’s Party (PP) Eastern Region governor Samson Msosa was on Monday assaulted in Mangochi by assailants he claims to be members of the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF).

However, UDF has distanced itself from the accusation, saying the issue had nothing to do with the party as it was a religious one.

In an interview yesterday, Msosa said he had heard that two sheikhs, Ali Mdala and Muhammed Mwanyali, had been kidnapped at around 7pm.

Said Msosa: “One of [the two sheikhs] called to inform me about the kidnap and I went where they were being hidden. I found many people there and one of them hit me on the head with a plank.”

He claimed that those that hit him were UDF supporters because the two sheikhs have been attending President Joyce Banda’s meetings.

But UDF administrative secretary Ian Kanyuka dismissed Msosa’s claims, saying his party does not condone violence.

“The issue had nothing to do with the UDF because it was a religious matter. He knows the truth, but is deliberately involving our party,” said Kanyuka.

Mangochi Police Station officer-in-charge Elijah Kachikuwo confirmed the incident in another interview.

He said after Msosa reported the matter to police, he was taken to Mangochi District Hospital.

“We are investigating the matter and so far, there is one suspect. Soon, we are going to make some arrests,” said Kachikuwo.

Mangochi district health officer (DHO) Ethwako Phiri refused to disclose the extent of the injury without the consent of the victim.