Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and United Transformation Movement has hit back at Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for suggesting that the police should arrest opposition leaders for allegedly fueling violence in the country by supporting demonstrations.

MCP and UTM have however described the move by DPP as a plan to divert people’s attention from escalating political crisis.

DPP through its spokesperson Nicholas Dausi on Saturday issued a statement, blaming MCP, UTM and Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) for the current wave of violence which has led to vandalizing of properties and beating of ruling party cadets in some instances.

Denying the accusation, HRDC member Luke Tembo said the organization has nothing to do with the violence and vandalism.

Commenting on the matter MCP publicity secretary reverend Maurice Munthali said the party and its members joined the demonstrations because it is their constitutional right.

“The DPP just want to divert people’s attention from the political crisis the country is going through but we are not intimidated,” said Munthali.

On the other hand UTM spokesperson Joseph Chidamti Malunga said the DPP should blame the police for its failure to protect people’s lives and property.

“DPP should stop pointing fingers at the opposition on issues which have to do with the police. UTM will continue to participate in the demonstrations,” Malunga said.

Ironically, Nicholas Dausi who is also the minister of Home land security signed the press statement.