Sunday, Malawians commemorated 14 years since the killing of 21 unarmed civilians during the July 20, 2011 demonstrations.
The people were demonstrating against economic hardship and poor governance during Bingu wa Mutharika’s regime.
This year’s memorial service, held at Zolozolo Cemetery in Mzuzu City under the theme ‘Reflect, Heal and Reject Violence’, drew together members of bereaved families, faith leaders, civil society organisation and political representatives.
Speaking at the event, Principal Secretary for Local Government, Unity and Culture Elizabeth Chindebvu disclosed that President Lazarus Chakwera had directed that each bereaved family receive K5 million as part of the government’s effort to provide a dignified form of consolation.
“It must not be symbolic but [a] genuine [gesture] to foster healing. All the processes are underway and the government is also set to construct a perimeter fence around the cemetery,” she said.
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Reverend Maurice Munthali, who represented Alliance for Democracy, urged the government to establish a special fund to support members of bereaved families.
Munthali also urged the current administration not to repeat mistakes of the past.
“It is unfortunate that people are still being denied their right to protest. We cannot justify evil simply because it once happened. I urge the current administration to pu an end to any acts of violence,” Munthali said.
Mzuzu Civil Society Network Chairperson Edward Kamtuseya echoed the sentiment, saying violence undermined democracy.
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Kamtuseya appealed for a violence-free campaign period as Malawi gears up for the September 16, 2025 Local Government, Parliamentary and Presidential Elections.
Speaking on behalf of members of the bereaved families, Mercy Mbezuma expressed disappointment that children left behind were never supported by the government.
“For 14 years now, there have been these promises. We will continue pushing on,” she said.
The event was organised by Church and Society of the CCAP Synod of Livingstonia in partnership with Mzuzu City Council, CSOs, faith-based groups and members of bereaved families.
After making speeches and holding a prayer session, patrons laid wreaths at Zolozolo Cemetery.
Out of the 21 people killed during the 2011 protests, eight were buried at Zolozolo Cemetery.
