A senior member of Malawi’s opposition, Patricia Kaliati, has been charged with conspiring to assassinate President Lazarus Chakwera. Kaliati, the Secretary-General of the UTM party, was arrested last week under allegations of “colluding with others to commit a serious crime.”
During her court appearance in Lilongwe, the 57-year-old did not address the court, but her lawyer maintained her innocence, citing local media reports. Details regarding the alleged assassination plot remain limited, leading several opposition figures to assert that the charges are politically motivated.
Supporters of the UTM gathered outside the courthouse, chanting anti-government songs in a show of solidarity before the hearing commenced. Inside the courtroom, it was revealed that Kaliati had two alleged accomplices who are currently evading capture. Despite a request from the state prosecutor for an additional week of detention, the magistrate allowed Kaliati to be released on bail as investigations continue.
Malawi’s police confirmed that their actions are lawful and assured that Kaliati’s rights will be respected throughout the legal process.
The UTM party was part of the government until June when it withdrew following the death of its leader, Saulos Chilima, the former vice president, who tragically died in a plane crash at the age of 51. Since then, Kaliati has positioned herself as a candidate to succeed Chilima as party leader and intends to challenge President Chakwera in the upcoming presidential election.
Kaliati, a former primary school teacher, is recognized for her outspoken and candid approach to politics.
