On Wednesday, a group of women wearing Malawi Congress Party (MCP) regalia were verbally harassed, attacked, and nearly beaten in Ndirande, Blantyre, while traveling to the Chilembwe Day commemoration. Their clothes were torn, and their vehicles stoned. Some well-wishers helped them escape.

MCP’s Jessie Kabwila blamed the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), accusing them of inciting violence after DPP legislator Victor Musowa previously encouraged attacks on MCP supporters.

DPP spokesperson Shadric Namalomba denied responsibility, calling for the arrest of the perpetrators and emphasizing that the party does not condone violence.

Civil society groups have called for politicians to focus on issue-based campaigns and reject violence.