Blantyre, Malawi – 23 June 2025 | The Malawi Network of Older Persons’ Organisations (MANEPO) is deeply saddened and outraged by the brutal killing of 85-year-old Ruth Lauzhi in Bazhu Village under Traditional Authority Mbenje in Nsanje District.
According to family sources, Ms. Lauzhi was discovered dead outside her home late Sunday night, having been severely beaten and her throat slit. The attackers, who remain unidentified, are also suspected to have stolen some of her belongings, including clothing. She lived with her 22-year-old grandson and near her brother-in-law, who is deaf and mute. The family has since appealed for justice.
“We don’t know who did this, and we also don’t know the motive,” said her brother, Richard Monja. “This has instilled fear in the entire community.”
Nsanje Police spokesperson, Sub Inspector Agnes Zalakoma, confirmed the incident, stating that the motive behind the murder was not yet known and that investigations were ongoing.
A Disturbing Irony After National Elder Abuse Awareness Day
This horrific act comes just days after Malawi joined the global community in commemorating World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) on June 15 — a day dedicated to promoting the rights, safety, and dignity of older persons.
Andrew Kavala, Executive Director of MANEPO, described the incident as a painful contradiction to the commitments Malawi made during WEAAD.
“This act is not only a violation of human rights, but also a direct attack on the dignity, safety, and sanctity of older persons in Malawi,” said Kavala.
“We cannot allow this to go unanswered — not after reaffirming, as a nation, our pledge to end violence against older persons.”
A Call for Urgent Action
MANEPO strongly condemns this senseless killing and urgently calls on the Malawi Police Service to:
- Expedite investigations into the incident;
- Ensure that those responsible are swiftly brought to justice;
- Provide regular updates to the public to restore community confidence.
The organisation reminds the nation that older men and women are entitled to protection, respect, and equal treatment under the law. Malawi’s recently enacted Older Persons Act offers a legal framework to safeguard these rights and prosecute abuses.
“Let it be known across the country: the lives of older persons matter,” Kavala emphasized. “Any attack on them is an attack on the fabric of our society. We must respond with urgency, with justice, and with compassion.”
MANEPO continues to advocate for stronger community engagement, accountability, and zero tolerance for elder abuse in all its forms.
END
