Protesters, police differ on security in Mzuzu

Organisers of protests aimed at forcing the government to cushion Malawians from the effects of the recent devaluation of the kwacha, have accused police of failing to provide them with security during their march in Mzuzu on Wednesday.

Lead organiser Bon Kalindo wondered why the police did not provide security to protesters when they had been assured of the same the previous day.

He said: “There were no police officers during our protest march. We have walked peacefully, but without any protection. We could have been attacked.

“What kind of police are they that cannot ably protect people who are simply exercising their constitutional right?”

However, Northern Region Police Commissioner Noel Kayira dismissed Kalindo’s claim, saying they had about 450 officers both in uniform and civilian clothes providing security.

He said officers in civilian attire provided the security needed during Kalindo’s protest march, while those in uniform were placed in strategic places to protect lives and property.

Said Kayira: “I am not supposed to tell them how we provide security, this was our strategy. Many officers were there, including myself.

“We had about 450 officers in Mzuzu yesterday.”

The protesters demanded that government provide clear economic solutions to the problems in the country.

The marchers delivered their petition to the district commissioner’s office in Mzuzu