Mhango accuses Chithyola of hypocrisy over Namiwa arrest

Leader of the House Jappie Mhango on Friday accused Leader of Opposition Simplex Chithyola Banda of hypocrisy after the latter criticised the arrest and detention of human rights activist Sylvester Namiwa.

The exchange unfolded in Parliament after Chithyola told the House he had visited Namiwa at Lingadzi Police Station, where he alleged the activist had been denied food, access to his lawyer and visits from relatives.

Chithyola described the alleged treatment as inhumane, questioned whether Malawi was becoming a “police state” and called for Namiwa to be released or taken to court without delay.

Responding to the remarks, Mhango urged Parliament to allow law enforcement agencies to carry out their duties without interference and questioned what he described as the Opposition’s sudden defence of Namiwa.

Mhango: accuses Chithyola of betraying Namiwa

“They almost killed the young man. Today they are becoming holier. If Mr. Namiwa has broken any law, the law is simply following him. Let us allow our law enforcement agencies to do their work unhindered,” Mhango said.

He added that no one is above the law and that anyone suspected of committing an offence should be allowed to go through the legal process.

UTM Member of Parliament for Mwanza Central Felix Njawala also criticised Chithyola’s remarks, saying that while calls for respect for the rule of law were justified, they lacked credibility because they came from leaders he accused of previously failing to defend Namiwa.

“The sentiments are valid, but they are coming from the wrong person because just months ago you were doing the same to the same person,” Njawala said.

Njawala: criticizes Chithyola

Namiwa was arrested on Thursday on allegations of publishing false news and conduct likely to cause a breach of the peace.

Police say investigations are ongoing, while opposition parties and human rights advocates have called on authorities to uphold due process and respect his constitutional rights.