HRDC vows to come out stronger after protester’s death
Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has warned government that the death of protester Justin Phiri in police custody will not stop Malawians from fighting for change in the country.
Speaking during Phiri’s burial on Sunday in Mzimba, HRDC chairperson Timothy Mtambo accused government of taking pride in killing people.
With tears rolling down his face, he stressed that Malawians will come out strong to fight the injustices and ensure that the country is favourable for everyone.
“I want to challenge them that as Malawians, we will not stop the protests until we see change. We want a Malawi that is convenient for everyone.
“They take pride in killing people. We know that they are good at that but we will not tolerate such things to continue,” said Mtambo.
He also called on the police to start protecting lives and not killing the same people they are supposed to protect. He accused police of being used in such killings instead of protecting lives.
UTM Party secretary general Patricia Kaliati, who attended the ceremony alongside several other party leaders and followers, condemned the death of Phiri saying such killings cannot be taking place in a democratic society.
She said people fought for democracy, but their rights and freedom continue to be infringed by the Democratic Progressive Party led government.
Phiri’s family also vowed to fight for justice saying as far as they are concerned, their relation was killed and there is need for justice.
Minister of Information and Communications Technology Mark Botomani called on HRDC to reflect on what the Supreme Court had directed.
He said the two parties have not reached a point where they have agreed that there can now be peaceful demonstrations.
