By Ollus Ndomu
Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera faces another setback as an unusual incident unfolds – the reported theft of his red carpet ahead of a scheduled public event. This comes in the wake of recent tensions, including an incident where the President was stoned in Blantyre.
Unknown thieves are said to have targeted the red carpet, typically rolled out for President Chakwera during public functions, along with a tent.
The items were allegedly stolen during the night along Zalewa-Mwanza road as they were being transported to Mwanza for an upcoming event on Friday.
Law enforcement agencies have launched a manhunt to apprehend the suspected thieves responsible for the peculiar heist.
President Chakwera was slated to visit the district for the ground-breaking ceremony of the Mwanza Stadium construction and to inspect newly constructed police officers’ houses. The missing red carpet, however, adds an unexpected twist to the preparations for the event.
This incident follows a recent unusual encounter for President Chakwera when his convoy encountered a funeral procession in Ndirande Township. In a departure from the norm, the crowd refused to yield to the convoy, even as police attempted to clear the passage.
Video clips circulating on social media depict a seemingly perplexed and resigned police force, highlighting a unique challenge in managing public sentiments.
