A People’s Party (PP) aspirant for Nsanje Lalanje Constituency Lawrence Sitolo, has been warned through an anonymous text message not to contest in 2014.
He has since reported the death threats to Soche Police in Blantyre.
Reads the text message: “Sitolo be warned that if you insist to contest in 2014 you will die sooner than later. We know where you live and where you work. We are watching all your moves. Umutsatira mwana mnzako Chasowa. Think twice or risk your life to politics, this is not your time, take or leave it. We are the killers.”
Sitolo, who would not point at a person behind this, said unknown people recently pulled over their unregistered vehicle at his house in Chitawira Township but left immediately when confronted by his guards.
Southern Region Police Headquarters spokesperson Nicholas Gondwa confirmed Sitiolo filed a complaint.
“We have opened a file of intimidation. We are investigating the matter, but so far it has not led to any arrest,” said Gondwa.
PP deputy administrative officer Joseph Chikwemba said the party has not received an official complaint. But he said he has known and discussed the matter with Sitolo as a friend and advised him to report to police.
“It is a criminal matter. I don’t know who has done that but it is unfortunate,” said Chikwemba.
Incumbent MP for Nsanje Lalanje Sam Ganda distanced himself from the incident. He also denied knowing Sitolo in person.
“I can’t stop anyone from contesting. It has nothing to do with me. Let police investigate who has done that,” said Ganda.
