§ 93. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he is aware that houses and other property of African opponents of the Malawi Congress party have been burnt down; what counter-measures have been taken by the Nyasaland authorities; and whether he will consider the postponement of elections in the Protectorate until there is freedom from intimidation.
§ Mr. Iain MacleodIn the Visanza sub-district of Central Province six houses of prominent Africans, four of them owned by United Federal Party officials, were burned down on the night of 26th July; a further house, two cattle kraals and two food stores belonging to the same persons were destroyed on the night of 27th; and, fifteen miles away, two houses, one belonging to a Malawi Congress Party supporter, were destroyed by fire on the night of 28th.
228WThe police are actively investigating these incidents, which show no evidence of political intimidation inspired by Malawi Congress Party leaders. The Governor, who is in the best position to judge, sees no justification for post poning the elections either locally or generally.