A Custody Battle Over Dogs Rocks an African Nation

A custody battle over four guard dogs has unexpectedly become a major political flashpoint in Malawi. Former President Lazarus Chakwera and current President Peter Mutharika are locked in a standoff after Chakwera took four trained dogs from the presidential palace to his private home after losing last year’s election.

After losing his re-election bid in 2025, former President Lazarus Chakwera took four guard dogs from the presidential palace in Lilongwe to his private residence (about 6 miles away), reportedly using a police truck to transport them.

The new President Peter Mutharika (who took office after the election) views the dogs as state property—essential assets tied to the presidency, including for security. Supporters of Chakwera argue the dogs are part of his personal security detail and even protect against threats like witchcraft (a belief noted in some local contexts, though disputed by others).

About a month into Mutharika’s term, he sent around 80 policemen to Chakwera’s home to retrieve the dogs. Chakwera refused to open the door, sparking a standoff that escalated into a legal and political battle. It has divided opinions in Malawi, with the situation highlighting tensions between the outgoing and incoming administrations.

The dogs are trained to detect weapons, black-magic fetishes and other threats, so Chakwera says they’re part of his official security detail, not just pets.

But President Mutharika insists they are state property needed for his own protection as head of state.  

A key twist to the saga is that Police warrants specified German shepherds, but the dogs are actually one Dutch shepherd and three Belgian Malinois, complicating legal efforts to seize them. 

The dogs themselves have been described humorously in some coverage as “hiding” or staying out of sight amid the drama. The dispute is ongoing as a monthslong issue blending politics, property claims, and cultural elements.

The controversy has become a symbol of political tension between rival factions in Malawi — not just about dogs but about security, legitimacy, and authority. Public discourse, including social media and religious figures, has latched onto the story, underscoring divisions in the country. 

The court has yet to issue a final decision, and authorities are still trying to locate the animals. 

(Wall Street Journal)