By Chisomo Phiri
In an effort towards promoting peace and unity in the run-up to the September 16, 2025, general elections, political parties in the South Eastern Region have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The agreement brings together parties such as the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), People’s Party (PP), and United Democratic Front (UDF), among others, in a commitment to peaceful elections.
Speaking during the partnership signing ceremony on Saturday,Deputy Commissioner of Police for the South Eastern Region, Stain Chaima, commended the parties for their dedication, emphasizing that this move will foster peace not only in the region but also across the country.
On his part Chief Executive Officer (CEO ) for Luchenza Municipality,Wanyapakucha Mzumara,encouraged the parties to focus on issue-based campaigns, enabling voters to make informed decisions.
In his remarks,Chairperson of the Peace and Unity Committee,Martin Kavalo stressed that promoting peace during the electoral period is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of everyone.
Political violence often leads to human rights abuses, including physical attacks, destruction of property, and suppression of freedom of speech and association and assembly.
However,in Malawi, political leaders often remain silent or issue lukewarm statements when their supporters engage in violence.
This indifference can be attributed to political expediency — leaders fear alienating their support base and, in some cases, may even benefit from the violence and a culture of impunity.
