Coup claims in Malawi
2008-05-13 19:43
Lilongwe - Malawi has arrested two senior figures from the opposition United Democratic Front (UDF) on treason charges, and issued an arrest warrant for the party's candidate for next year's election, officials said on Tuesday.
Police said they arrested UDF Secretary-General Kennedy Mwakwangwala and senior UDF executive member John Chikakwiya, as well as former army commander Joseph Chimbayo and former inspector general of police Joseph Aironi.
"The four have been arrested for plotting to overthrow the government on May 16 when former President Bakili Muluzi returns from London where he is on holiday," said Minister of Information Patricia Kaliati.
An arrest warrant was issued for Muluzi, who is still out of the country.
George Ntafu, leader of the UDF in parliament, confirmed the arrests.