Malawi Cables
Commissioner Kaira, known for his unwavering commitment to upholding the constitutional rights of Malawians, has been abruptly transferred following his handling of events surrounding the arrest of Sameer Suleman in Blantyre on Monday.
This publication has learned that Commissioner Kaira resisted pressure from Malawi Congress Party (MCP) officials, who reportedly sought to use law enforcement to intimidate Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) supporters. Despite these pressures, Kaira ensured that DPP supporters were not tear-gassed or dispersed while they assembled peacefully and held a vigil at Blantyre Police Station.
The approach taken in Blantyre contrasted sharply with incidents in Lilongwe, where opposition supporters were tear-gassed and chased away from similar gatherings. Kaira’s professionalism reportedly angered senior MCP figures, including Minister of Homeland Security Ezekiel Ching’oma, who allegedly demanded his immediate transfer.
Sources indicate that Kaira also refused to act on political pressure to arrest DPP official Chisale after remarks he made during a rally in Bangwe. Instead, Kaira summoned Chisale for a caution, stating that there were no legal grounds for an arrest.
In a political climate where the police are often accused of targeting opposition figures, Kaira’s stance highlights the professionalism of certain officers who remain committed to their constitutional mandate. However, his transfer has raised concerns about the increasing politicization of law enforcement in Malawi.
