Mukhito, protect Bingu's people

Written by RAPHAEL TENTHANI

WHY do some Malawians want to be more Malawian than others? Why do some Malawians think their way is good and everyone must follow them?

I am posing these questions because of a shadowy group dubiously calling itself 'Concerned Citizens' that wants to disrupt peaceful demonstrations members of the civil society, joined by some religious groups and opposition parties, are planning to hold across the country this Wednesday to register their dismay at the many problems Malawi is currently facing. The issues range from the twin problems of fuel and foreign exchange (forex) reserves to the dwindling rule of law.

This is nothing criminal in a democracy. In fact protests are the bedrock of democracy as citizens use them to awaken elected leaders who seem to be sleeping on the job. On June 14, 1993 Malawians voted to regain their freedoms. Nearly 20 years later no one should be allowed to unmake what some people risked their lives for.

What the so-called 'Concerned Citizens' are planning to do is a recipe for trouble for the two sides are likely to clash. If our police is truly professional this is time to act. Peter Mukhito, whom President Mutharika dubbed as the best police chief ever, has to rise above politics and reign in these people who want to bring chaos in Malawi.

If the 'Concerned Citizens' disagree with the planned demonstrations they have all the rights to express their views. But, if they want to express their views through demonstrations, they should choose another date for July 20 has already been booked. Otherwise what they are planning to do is criminal.

I believed Bingu when he said Mukhito is the best police chief ever. Let the police chief prove the president right by making sure Bingu's countrymen freely express themselves in the streets without anybody hijacking their democratic right. After all nobody will be breaking any law for protesting against things they think are not right. Those who are planning to disrupt them will fall afoul of the 'Conduct Likely to Breach the Peace' laws and I know my good police chief, Mukhito, will be alert to stop that.