Manepo Pushes for Innovative Elderly Protection

Malawi Network of Older Persons’ Organizations (Manepo) has condemned the recent harassment of an elderly woman, Mary Laini, 87, from Matewere Village in Traditional Authority Juma in Mulanje District.

On January 2, 2025, Laini was brutally beaten on grounds of ‘withholding rains through magic. Manepo’s executive director, Andrew Kavala said these baseless accusations, not only violate human rights, but also perpetuate dangerous and unfounded cultural beliefs, that harm older persons in the society.

Manepo has demanded immediate legal action through the Malawi Police Service to thoroughly investigate the incident and the perpetrators face the law. Kavala has also further urged Government to take more robust action in ensuring the safety and protection of older persons especially in rural areas.

In response, Mulanje Police public relations officer, Innocent Moses confirmed that the police have arrested Mikeyasi Jackson ,35, in connection to the case. Jackson hails from Chimtengo village in the area of Traditional Authority Juma in Mulanje district. Moses said that on the same fateful day, the suspect with his accomplices also invaded the homes of and wounded Ellen Laudon, 61, Eliza Master, 18 and Olivia Malikebu, 30, on the same grounds of withholding rains.

“The arrested suspect will appear in court soon to answer all charges levelled against him as the hunt for his accomplices continue,” he said.

In recent times, the elderly have faced attacks from some sections of the society on witchcraft accusations

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