A leading member of Malawi’s opposition has been charged with plotting to kill the country’s President, Lazarus Chakwera.

Patricia Kaliati, Secretary-General of the UTM party, was arrested last week on suspicion of “conspiring with others to commit a serious offence”.

Appearing on Monday at a court in Malawi’s capital, Lilongwe, the 57-year-old did not speak. But her lawyer argued that the politician maintained her innocence, local media reports.

Few details of the alleged plot have been shared and various opposition figures claim the charges against Kaliati are politically motivated.

UTM supporters gathered outside the court and sang anti-government songs ahead of the hearing, according to the AFP news agency.

Inside, the court heard that Kaliati had two co-conspirators – said to be on the run.

The magistrate eventually ruled that Kaliati could be released on bail as investigations continue.

The state prosecutor had asked for her to be held for another week.

Police in Malawi said they were acting within the law and that Kaliati’s rights would be respected.

Her party, the UTM, was part of the county’s government until June when it withdrew following the death of its leader, Saulos Chilima, who was serving as vice-president.

He died aged 51 after a military aircraft he was flying in crashed in a forest in the north of Malawi.

Kaliati has since presented herself as a candidate to replace Chilima as party leader, with a view to challenge Chakwera in next year’s presidential election.

A primary school teacher before entering politics, Kaliati is well known for her outspoken, straight-talking character.