Fifteen years after the July 20, 2011, demonstrations, the National Advocacy Platform (NAP) has renewed calls for the government to complete compensation for the families of those who died and for individuals who sustained injuries during the protests.

Marking this year’s commemoration of the July 20 martyrs, the civil society organisation said the prolonged wait for compensation has denied affected families justice and closure, urging authorities to treat the matter as both a constitutional duty and a moral obligation.

NAP noted that the 20 citizens who lost their lives made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of justice, democratic freedoms and accountable governance, saying their contribution should remain a lasting reminder of the importance of protecting human rights and the rule of law.

The organisation further challenged leaders, public institutions and Malawians at large to uphold the principles for which the victims died by promoting constitutionalism, tolerance, dialogue and peaceful democratic participation.

According to NAP, the legacy of the July 20 martyrs should not be confined to annual commemorations but should instead be reflected in stronger democratic institutions, responsive leadership and greater accountability in public service.

The platform also urged the nation to ensure that no citizen ever again loses their life for peacefully demanding justice, human dignity and good governance, describing the martyrs’ sacrifice as a guiding symbol for Malawi’s democratic future.