United Transformation Movement (UTM) Party has condemned the assault of United Democratic Front (UDF) running mate Frank Tumpale Mwenefumbo by alleged Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) supporters in Rumphi.

Information sourced by faceofmalawi indicates that AFORD members armed with Panga knives invaded Mwenefumbo’s rally on Wednesday.

The suspect beat up Mwenefumbo before pulling down AFORD flags erected at the venue of the rally.

In a statement released on Thursday, UTM spokesperson Joseph Chidanti Malunga condemned the violence by describing the act as barbaric.

“UTM detests violence of any form and wherever it happens. We would, therefore, like to appeal to all political leaders to prevail on their members to desist from resolving whatever differences may arise through violence. We are famed for being a peaceful country and we must all guard this reputation jealously,” said Malunga.

Malunga also commended the Malawi Police Service for stepping in swiftly to restore order at the venue.

Meanwhile police have arrested Patani Gondwe for having a hand in the fracas.