By Burnett Munthali
Principal Secretary for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Mwayiwawo Polepole, has described the launch of the AU-COMESA Pre-Election Initiative for Malawi as a critical step as the country prepares for the September 16 elections.
Speaking at the launch ceremony held at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC), Dr. Polepole said the initiative seeks to promote peaceful, credible, and inclusive elections.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to working with national institutions and partners to safeguard democracy and ensure a peaceful electoral process.
He also stressed the importance of upholding human rights, particularly the right to vote without fear, noting that the initiative will help reinforce existing peace efforts ahead of polling day.
Dr. Polepole further thanked the African Union (AU), COMESA, and other partners for their continued support.
AU Ambassador Akok Madut, Head of the Mediation and Dialogue Division, said the AU will maintain a quiet facilitation role, supported by an observation mission and preventive diplomacy presence in Lilongwe.
COMESA Committee of Elders Chairperson, Ambassador Ashraf Rashed, echoed the sentiment, noting that Malawi’s history of peaceful democratic transitions sets an example, and the upcoming elections present an opportunity to reaffirm that commitment to democracy and peace.
The launch of the AU-COMESA Pre-Election Initiative demonstrates Malawi’s proactive approach to ensuring a credible and peaceful electoral process.
By involving regional bodies like the AU and COMESA, the initiative strengthens democratic safeguards and provides reassurance to voters that their rights will be protected.
As Malawi approaches the September 16 elections, the collaboration between government, regional partners, and civil society will be crucial in maintaining peace, stability, and public confidence in the electoral process.
