UTM Party, Aford supporters clash

UTM Party and Alliance for Democracy (Aford) supporters on Tuesday clashed in Karonga North West ahead of the March 30 by-election in the constituency.

The incident happened at Kasisi area in Traditional Authority Kilupula where Aford were conducting a campaign rally.

In an interview, Aford and UTM Party officials confirmed about the incident.

Aford deputy regional governor (North) Denis Mhone alleged that UTM Party supporters intruded the venue with loud noise from a public address system.

He said: “UTM Party supporters have been trailing our campaign team.

“We have avoided them many times and today the situation got worse. However, we controlled our supporters.”

But UTM Party publicity secretary Frank Mwenifumbo said Aford wanted to tarnish the good image of his party.

He said: “Aford supporters blocked the way by parking their cars in the middle of the road.

“However, UTM party supporters avoided confrontation and diverted to the bush. It is unfortunate Aford is blowing this issue out of proportion.”

Karonga Police Station officer-in-charge Tiyese Chiwumbuzo said he had no official reports about the clashes, but pledged to look into the issue.

The Catholic Commission of Justice and Peace of Karonga Diocese desk officer Louis Nkhata condemned the incident.

“Politicians should consult the police and chiefs when they want to conduct campaign rallies for security,” he said.

Malawi Electoral Commission chairperson Chifundo Kachale, who is in the district to monitor campaign rallies, also condemned the incident, saying political violence has no room in democracy.

“Parties should respect the rule of law and adhere to the code of conduct to avoid violence,” he said.