Blantyre-based parliamentarian Sameer Suleman, popularly known as “Iron Man,” has been granted bail after alleging that senior Malawi Congress Party (MCP) officials plotted to kill him. Instead of investigating his claims and ensuring his safety, the Malawi Police—reportedly acting on orders from the ruling MCP—arrested Suleman on charges of libel on Monday.

Suleman had accused prominent MCP officials, including Minister of Local Government Richard Chimwendo, former Minister of Homeland Security Ken Zikhale Ng’oma, and MCP Director of Youth Steve Kamsiyamo, of being behind the alleged plot against him. These accusations came in the wake of Suleman’s continued efforts to expose alleged corruption and mismanagement within the government, earning him widespread public support as a vocal representative in Parliament.

Senior Resident Magistrate Andrew Mmanga granted Suleman bail, citing the “interests of justice,” despite attempts by the police and MCP to extend his custody and transfer him to Lilongwe for further investigations. The move was met with public outrage, with angry citizens camping outside Blantyre Police Station to protest his detention.

With Malawi heading to the polls on September 16, accusations of political intimidation and suppression of opposition voices have intensified. Many view Suleman’s arrest as part of a broader strategy by the MCP to silence dissent and consolidate power ahead of the elections.

Suleman’s release has been celebrated as a victory for justice and a reminder of the public’s resilience in defending their freedoms against perceived political oppression.