- Malawi Opposition Leader Charged
- Plot to Kill President Alleged
- Kaliati Granted Bail
A prominent member of Malawi’s opposition, Patricia Kaliati, has been charged with conspiring to assassinate President Lazarus Chakwera. Kaliati, who serves as the Secretary-General of the UTM party, was arrested last week on allegations of “conspiring with others to commit a serious offence.”
During her court appearance on Monday in the capital, Lilongwe, the 57-year-old refrained from making any statements. Her lawyer asserted that she maintains her innocence, according to local media reports.
Details surrounding the alleged assassination plot remain scarce, leading several opposition figures to claim that the charges are politically motivated.
Supporters of the UTM party gathered outside the courthouse, chanting anti-government songs prior to the hearing, as reported by the AFP news agency. Inside the courtroom, it was revealed that Kaliati had two alleged co-conspirators who are currently on the run.
The magistrate ultimately ruled that Kaliati could be released on bail while investigations continue, despite the state prosecutor’s request to detain her for an additional week.
Malawi police have stated that they are acting in accordance with the law and assured that Kaliati’s rights would be respected throughout the process.
Kaliati’s party, the UTM, was part of the governing coalition until June, when it withdrew following the death of its leader, Saulos Chilima, who served as vice president. Chilima died at the age of 51 in a military aircraft crash in northern Malawi.
Following his death, Kaliati has positioned herself as a candidate to succeed Chilima as party leader, aiming to challenge President Chakwera in the upcoming presidential election next year.
Before entering politics, Kaliati worked as a primary school teacher and is known for her outspoken and forthright demeanor.
