Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has suspended its planned shutdown of the Chiweta–Karonga M1 section scheduled for today to push for speedy rehabilitation of the road.
HRDC said the shutdown was meant to secure concrete, timely and meaningful action to address the long-standing concerns surrounding the Chiweta–Karonga Road in the interest of public safety, economic development and the well-being of the citizenry.
this file photograph. | Nation
But yesterday afternoon, the coalition suspended the protest after Rumphi District Council and Malawi Police refused to grant them permission on the basis that the action could inconvenience business and infringe on the rights of other road users.
In a statement, HRDC chairperson Michael Kaiyatsa said the decision followed extensive consultations and consideration of the various views expressed by affected communities, traditional leaders, religious leaders, civil society actors, transport operators and citizens across the country.
“While there remains overwhelming public concern and frustration over the deplorable state of the road, HRDC has also taken note of differing views regarding the proposed road closure and the need for further engagement on the most effective way of advancing this important cause,” he said.
Rumphi district commissioner Thomas Chigwenembe said HRDC should do the shutdown in Karonga if it so wishes since a large part of the damaged section lies in Karonga.
From Chiweta to Karonga, the stretch is roughly 105 kilometres (km), but from Lwezga to the boma, it is about 90km.
National Police spokesperson Lael Chimtembo also maintained that the law enforcement agency would not allow the road to be closed, but that they could provide security if HRDC follows all relevant laws.
“We can’t stop them from demonstrating, but what we are against is closing the road because that puts everyone to ransom. We have students writing examinations and are using the same road,” he said.
Karonga would be a no-go zone for the protest because Karonga Chiefs Council, led by Paramount Chief Kyungu, already declared last week that they do not want demonstrations, calling for a peaceful engagement with Capital Hill.
Last week, Minister of Transport and Public Works Jappie Mhango said the M1 is a national road that does not belong to the people of Rumphi or Karonga and implored the police to decisively deal with any disruptive elements.
