The Chewa Harass Muslims in Malawi

Muslim Association of Malawi has expressed worry over the increased harassment on Muslims by the Chewa in some parts of Lilongwe district.

The concern has been raised following the incident that happened on Sunday in the area of group village headman Mtsinje TA Tsabango where 11 Muslims were beaten and stoned.

The incident took place days after Muslims and the Chewa had signed memorandum of understanding on peace and harmony at Lilongwe district council.

Speaking during a meeting on Tuesday between TA Tsabango, block leaders, police and Muslim leaders at Area 24 community ground MAM district chairperson Sheikh Abdul Hakeem Mussa said said Muslims are afraid of the Chewa in many parts of Lilongwe.

“The violence was done by a group of Chewa people commonly known as Mafumu amagaxi that stopped Muslims from burying a deceased in the graveyard which is in the area,” Sheikh Mussa revealed.

He said they will do everything possible to make sure that Muslims in various communities live peacefully.

“I appeal to Muslims to remain patient as the case is in the hands of law enforcers. We will not tolerate leaders who abuse their powers,” emphasised sheikh Mussa.

Representative of the concerned Muslims in the area Abdulsalam Faduwekc asked TA Tsabango and police to resolve the matter quickly so that the secret behind the conflict should be disclosed.

He said “Muslims are also denied access to water among others.People must respect others regardless of their race, religion and culture.”

In his reaction TA Tsabango said it is shameful that Chewa some people continue using their culture as a tool to abuse other people which did not happen in the history of his leadership.

Tsabango therefore urged all block leaders to present a good example to their people because they have a role to play in protecting them.

“it is time to build strong coordination and unity between the Chewa and Muslims for the betterment of their future children,” TA Tsabango stressed.

Concluding the meeting officer in charge for Kaware police station Mavuto M’bobo said the police will try its best to work together with chiefs and religious leaders to bring peace, unity, law and order in the area.

Meanwhile, police has arrested 3 ring leaders including group village headman Mtsinje.