SCATTERED DEMONSTRATIONS FOLLOW UDF VICTORY

UNCLAS LILONGWE 000439

SIPDIS

DEPT FOR CA/OCS/ACS (ROBINSON)

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PGOV PHUM CASC MI
SUBJECT: SCATTERED DEMONSTRATIONS FOLLOW UDF VICTORY

REF: LILONGWE 438


1. Delayed announcement of presidential and parliamentary
election results sparked scattered demonstrations and
violence in Blantyre and Mzuzu on May 23 (reftel). The
Mgwirizano Coalition, led by Gwanda Chakuamba, staged a
demonstration in Blantyre to protest the Malawi Electoral
Commission's (MEC) handling of the elections and the United
Democratic Front's (UDF) victory. When police attempted to
disperse the demonstrators with tear gas and warning shots,
opposition supporters reportedly torched the UDF's
headquarters. Some cars were also reportedly overturned
before the demonstration was broken up. No injuries or
deaths have been reported.


2. Tensions remain high as plans for Bingu wa Mutharika's
inauguration proceed for the morning of May 24. The high
tensions and several visiting SADC heads of state have led to
a heavy police presence in Blantyre.


3. CONOFF has been in contact with wardens. There have been
no reports of AMCIT injury.
DOUGHERTY