Vice President Saulos Chilima on Monday took a swipe at President Peter Mutharika, branding his actions as propagating “political thuggery” following a new wave of violence. 

Chilima claimed at a press briefing in Lilongwe that attacks on UTM supporters in Mulanje and Balaka districts were instigated by President Mutharika and his ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) which he said promotes lawlessness.

“Prof Mutharika and the DPP have now unleashed a new wave of violence and tribal rhetoric aimed at dividing Malawians,” said Chilima, who fell out of favour with his boss prior to 2019 elections.

Chilima also branded Mutharika as an enemy of Malawians for using violent acts to remain in power.

“Prof. Peter Mutharika and his henchmen who intend to remain in power by all means necessary are such enemies of the people of Malawi,” he said.

Chilima also termed Mutharika’s 40-year stay in the liberal democratic United States of America, a waste of time.

“I say so because you cannot stay in that liberal democracy for four decades and come back to Malawi and still submit to the belief that only your tribesmen are deserving your trust and assistance.”

“You cannot read law at a top law school and teach law at a respected university in America and come back to Malawi and unleash violence and hatred on your fellow countrymen. That is simply tragic,” he said.

Chilima therefore asked the President Mutharika to rise above partisan interests and uphold the hard earned democracy.

Presidential Press Secretary, Mgeme Kalirani dismissed Chilima’s allegations branding them as unfounded.

Kalirani said Chilima made the allegations to gain political mileage.