Malawi Police Service has launched the third edition of its Public Order Policy and Operational Guidelines to strengthen its law enforcement role ahead of the September 16 2025 General Election.
Speaking in Lilongwe yesterday during the launch, Malawi Police director of research, planning and reforms Commissioner Dennis Chipao said the revised policy has taken into account aspects such as strengthened accountability, human rights, standardised procedures and election-ready frameworks.
“We owe the public strengthened security especially as we head towards elections. While doing this, we are also focusing much on safeguarding human rights especially the right to express opinions,” said Chipao.
He said the police needed a comprehensive document to guide officers in the line of duty while striking a balance between public order and human rights.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) programme manager Azhar Malik said the police are key to free, fair and safe elections through professional public order management and urged them to ensure that they are familiar with the guidelines.
UNDP provided financial and technical support for the development of the guidelines that included extensive consultations.
