Week in Review: PAC’s peace call, campaign season begins, and high‑profile arrests mark Malawi’s week

By Burnett Munthali

Lilongwe, 20 July 2025.

The Public Affairs Committee (PAC) intensified its calls for peaceful political conduct during the week, urging opposition leaders to commit to non‑violent messaging ahead of the 2025 general elections.

Speaking on 17 July, Bishop Gilford Matonga stressed that irresponsible rhetoric during rallies could inflame tensions, emphasizing the need for unity and national stability.

President Lazarus Chakwera echoed these sentiments, reiterating that all political players should have the freedom to campaign without fear of intimidation or discrimination.

In a separate development, police in Lilongwe arrested 51‑year‑old Egnat Katengeza in connection with the death of her sister, Agnes, whose body was discovered behind Gateway Mall in September 2023.

Authorities revealed that the arrest followed earlier detentions linked to the case and indicated that financial motives are a central focus of the ongoing murder investigations.

Meanwhile, the Malawi Electoral Commission officially opened the 2025 election campaign period, ushering in a regulated phase for parties and candidates to engage voters under established guidelines.

This milestone signals the start of an intense political season, with stakeholders reminded to uphold transparency and peaceful conduct as campaigning intensifies.

Overall, the week’s developments showcased a mix of peace advocacy, law enforcement action, and preparations for the highly anticipated elections set for September.