A political rally organized by President Chakwera and the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) is scheduled to take place in Lilongwe on September 13, 2025. The event will begin at approximately 10:00 a.m. with the official opening of the newly constructed Saulos Chilima Highway, previously known as Kenyatta Drive, and Mzimba Road at the KCH interchange. President Chakwera is expected to conclude the rally with a speech at CIVO stadium.
Significant crowds and road congestion are anticipated along Saulos Chilima Highway, Mzimba Road, Crossroads Hotel area, and Paul Kagame Highway during the event. Although previous campaign activities have been largely peaceful, authorities note that large political gatherings in Lilongwe have historically carried an increased risk of confrontation. The potential for violence or spontaneous clashes remains elevated, with possible disruptions in and around affected areas.
"While the campaign period to date has been largely peaceful, large political events in the capital have historically carried an elevated risk of confrontation, and the possibility of violence cannot be ruled out," according to a statement from U.S. Embassy officials. "The potential for violence or spontaneous clashes remains elevated. Road congestion and disruptions are highly likely to occur around the affected areas."
Authorities advise individuals to avoid demonstration areas, exercise caution near large gatherings or protests, monitor local media for updates, keep a low profile, and review personal security plans.
For assistance or more information regarding travel safety in Malawi, U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. Embassy in Lilongwe during business hours at +(265) (0)88 477 3166 or after-hours at +(265) (0)88 296 0178. Additional resources include https://mw.usembassy.gov for updates from the embassy and general country information about Malawi through State Department – Consular Affairs services.
Travelers are also encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for security updates and follow embassy announcements on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook.