Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) says it is awaiting a report from a team deployed to investigate issues involving Blantyre City mayor Jomo Osman.
The move follows a video clip that went viral at the weekend in which Osman is seen slapping a woman in the presence of others.
MHRC chairperson Chikondi Chijozi said in an interview yesterday that the team began work immediately after the incident and hopes to complete it soon.
She added that preliminary findings will determine the commission’s next course of action, including whether to open an independent investigation or wait for a report from the Malawi Police Service.
Said Chijozi: “Our team is monitoring the situation on the ground regarding the Blantyre mayor Jomo Osman’s case.
“The team that was sent will compile a report which will help us in decision-making on our next course of action.”
On Saturday, National Police spokesperson Lael Chimtembo said police were handling the matter.
He added that the Inspector General of Police has engaged Osman on the issue.
However, when contacted yesterday, National Police deputy spokesperson Alfred Chimthere asked for more time to comment on the status of investigations.
Meanwhile, National Advocacy Platform chairperson Benedicto Kondowe has said the expectation is that the matter will be concluded and justice served.
Kondowe, whose organisation described the conduct in the video as criminal, said the issue should be handled with urgency.
He said: “The core issue remains that no one is above the law, and Jomo, as an experienced and accomplished leader, is expected to uphold this standard without taking it for granted.
“Moving forward, the focus should be on allowing due process to proceed without undue pressure, lowering confrontational rhetoric, and promoting accountability in a manner that preserves dignity and institutional integrity. The key lesson is that true leadership is tested not in achievement alone, but in how one responds to scrutiny with humility and respect for the rule of law.”
The Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development and the Ministry of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare condemned the alleged acts of violence.
In a joint statement issued Saturday and signed by Principal Secretary for Local Government Moses Chimphepo and Principal Secretary for Gender Oliver Kumbambe, the ministries said they were concerned about footage showing the mayor engaging in violent conduct against suspected offenders, including the reported assault of a woman.
The ministries said while council leaders have a responsibility to maintain safety, security and order, such duties must be exercised within the law and with full respect for human rights.
