Patricia Kaliati, secretary general of Malawi’s UTM party, has been charged with plotting to assassinate President Lazarus Chakwera.
The 57-year-old opposition figure appeared in Lilongwe court Monday, where her lawyer maintained her innocence. Limited details about the alleged plot have emerged, with authorities claiming two co-conspirators remain at large.
Opposition members argue the charges are politically motivated. UTM supporters demonstrated outside the court, singing anti-government songs during the hearing. Despite prosecutors requesting extended detention, the magistrate granted Kaliati bail while investigations continue.
Police officials assert they are following legal procedures and will respect Kaliati’s rights. The UTM party recently withdrew from government following the death of its leader, Saulos Chilima, who served as vice-president until his death at 51 in a military aircraft crash.
Kaliati, a former primary school teacher known for her outspoken nature, has positioned herself as a candidate for party leadership and potential challenger to Chakwera in next year’s presidential election.
The case has heightened political tensions in Malawi, raising concerns about the relationship between the government and opposition parties.
The timing of the charges, coinciding with Kaliati’s bid for party leadership, has drawn scrutiny from political observers and civil society organizations.