The Malawi Defense Forces (MDF) say they are on high alert due to the growing tension in Mozambique, following popular demonstrations against the election results, considered to be the most fraudulent ever.

In a publication by Letter from MozambiqueA local portal quotes the Malawian Defense Commander, General Paul Valentino Phiri, as saying that he has asked people in the districts bordering Mozambique not to panic, as the military is prepared to deal with the situation.

Speaking during an Inter-Unit March and Shooting Competition at Choma Gally Camp in Mzuzu, which brought together 13 barracks and units from across the country, Phiri assured that the MDF has invested heavily in training soldiers to ensure that they are prepared to defend Malawi when the need arises.

"Let me assure Malawians that we are on alert in case of any attack. We are not in conflict with neighboring countries, but if we are provoked, we are ready to defend ourselves," said Phiri, who a few days ago launched a state of alert for his citizens in Mozambique in the face of the post-election crisis.

In a statement, the Malawi Consulate in Tete issued a travel alert, warning road users from Malawi to Mozambique to avoid the route. Consul General Happy Jonathan Sakah advised Malawian transporters, including drivers, to exercise extreme caution when using the Malawi-Zimbabwe route, via Mozambique.

(Photo DR)