Due to the government’s recent alleged atrocities against citizens, a United States agency has decided to withhold $350 million in aid to Malawi.

Last week, at least 18 people were killed as police in the country fought with anti-government demonstrators protesting high food prices and fuel shortages.

So on Tuesday the Millennium Challenge Corporation, the U.S. agency tasked with helping developing countries and rewarding nations that promote human rights, announced that it will be holding funds from the southern African nation amidst a review.   

The move will undoubtedly negatively affect the nation, which depends on donations for up to 40 percent of its budget, Bloomberg reports. Malawi’s biggest donor, the United Kingdom, has also cut aid to the nation after President Bingu wa Mutharika deported its envoy for criticizing him.

(Photo: Kondwani Magombo/Landov)