By McDonald Mapira, Correspondent
Two men were assaulted by a mob in Mzuzu on Wednesday night over allegations of being gay. The incident happened at a local drinking place around 11:00 PM.
According to Mzuzu Police spokesperson Paul Tembo, the victims have been identified as Yahaya Daud, 31, and Yamikani Makwangwala, 30. The two are alleged to have been involved in homosexual activities for several years.
The bar owner, Emmanuel Chisi, told police that a group of people stormed the premises and attacked the two men, accusing them of violating traditional cultural values.
“One man forcefully pushed them off their chairs,” said Chisi. “That seemed to trigger the rest of the mob, who began dragging them across the floor, punching them in the head, and whipping them on the legs and arms.”
Police arrived at the scene and rescued the victims, later taking them to Mzuzu Central Hospital for treatment. They are also reportedly facing possible court charges under Sections 153 and 156 of the Penal Code, which criminalize same-sex relationships in Malawi.
A medical report from the hospital confirmed the two had been assaulted. “They suffered multiple facial injuries, cuts, and bruises on the scalp which required stitching,” read part of the report.
Speaking from his hospital bed, Yahaya Daud expressed pain and disappointment. “I am in serious pain. I don’t understand why we are being treated like this. It is very sad this is happening in a democratic country,” he said.