NAP Condemns Attack on Former President Dr Lazarus Chakwera’s Convoy

Malawi Exclusive 

The National Advocacy Platform (NAP) has strongly condemned the violent attack on former President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera’s convoy and the assault on journalists in Blantyre.

In a statement released immediately on 25th October, 2026 in Lilongwe, NAP said it condemns in the strongest possible terms the reported violent attack on the convoy of former President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, the damage to a vehicle belonging to Hon. Moses Kunkuyu, and the manhandling and intimidation of journalists Francis Chamasowa and Francis Nkawihe on Sunday, 25th October 2026, in Blantyre.

“These acts represent a grave assault on human dignity, political tolerance, press freedom and the constitutional foundations of our democracy. They must never be normalised, excused or tolerated,” reads the statement.

NAP said it is particularly appalling that such violence reportedly occurred during the CCAP Blantyre Synod’s 150th anniversary celebrations, an occasion dedicated to faith, peace and national unity.

This is not the first time the former President has been targeted.

Background information shows that former President Chakwera was also attacked earlier this year during the John Chilembwe Day commemoration at the Providence Industrial Mission (PIM) in Chiradzulu.

During that event, which is meant to honour national hero Reverend John Chilembwe, supporters linked to the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) were reported to have disrupted proceedings and attacked Chakwera’s convoy, forcing security to whisk him away.

The repeated attacks on the former Head of State have raised serious concerns over growing political intolerance and selective application of justice.

NAP has since called on Malawi Police Service to swiftly investigate both incidents, arrest perpetrators and ensure safety of all political leaders and journalists regardless of party affiliation.