LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has come under heavy criticism from citizens across various social media platforms following its announcement to organise nationwide demonstrations if the government continues moving in the wrong direction.
HRDC Chairperson Michael Kaiyatsa stated that the organisation is prepared to take to the streets, arguing that peaceful protests are a constitutional right in Malawi.
He emphasised that the coalition’s mission is to ensure that duty-bearers fulfill the promises they made to Malawians.
Kaiyatsa added that HRDC will not hesitate to mobilise citizens if leaders ignore the concerns of the very people who elected them.
However, the public reaction has been overwhelmingly negative, with many questioning the credibility, timing, and motives of the organisation.
On the Politics Beyond 2025 Elections platform, Ishmael Jaffali criticised HRDC, accusing its leaders of contributing to the country’s decline.
He argued that some HRDC members are known for frequenting embassies, implying hidden agendas and external influences.
Another commentator, Mulumuzana, expressed doubt that HRDC has the moral grounds to speak now, saying that by 2029 it will become clear that the government has failed to fulfil its promises.
Steve, a contributor on another platform, said that Malawians have lost trust in HRDC, describing it as a group sponsored by the Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
On a separate discussion, Bambo a Billy mocked HRDC, asking where the organisation was when people were struggling with severe economic hardship.
He described the coalition as “foolish” for acting as if it has suddenly discovered the suffering of ordinary Malawians.
Ishmael Jaffali added another sharp comment, calling their actions shameless and accusing HRDC of lacking integrity.
On The Maravi Post comment section, another citizen pointed out that HRDC supporters are among those shocked by the economic realities, including 30% PAYE and 17.5% VAT, which ordinary citizens have been enduring for years.
Apostle Kopolo Banda, writing on Voice of Real Citizens, dismissed HRDC’s statement, calling it an act of shamelessness.
Another commentator, Apasulani, used strong language, calling HRDC leaders “dogs” who should not mislead Malawians.
Sankhani joined in with sarcasm, joking that HRDC has finally been “released from the rope,” suggesting they were previously restrained or controlled.
Heather Kalino harshly criticised HRDC, telling them to “go away” with what she described as useless actions.
On the Politics and Ideologies forum, Peter Symon said the public will not tolerate HRDC’s “nonsense” this time around.
He insisted that the streets no longer belong to HRDC and that Malawians will reject any attempts to mislead them.
The collective sentiment across these platforms shows a significant erosion of trust in HRDC, with many citizens feeling that the organisation has failed to consistently hold the government accountable.
Critics argue that HRDC remained silent during years of economic challenges, political missteps, and unfulfilled promises, only to rise now when public frustration has peaked.
The backlash highlights a growing disconnection between civil society leaders and the general public, with many Malawians demanding authenticity, consistency, and non-partisan advocacy.
As HRDC contemplates the possibility of demonstrations, it faces an uphill battle to regain the confidence of citizens who feel abandoned.
The reaction also underscores the shifting political landscape, where the public is increasingly vocal and unwilling to accept selective activism.
For now, HRDC’s warning has sparked more criticism than support, raising questions about its relevance and effectiveness in Malawi’s evolving civic space.
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