BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The 2025 Presidential Debates Task Force has assured Malawians that the highly anticipated series of presidential debates will go ahead as scheduled, despite the withdrawal of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).
In a statement released Wednesday, Task Force Chairperson Golden Matonga confirmed that the debates will run between August 21 and September 4, 2025, providing a platform for candidates to present their visions and policies to the electorate.
“We acknowledge the recent communication from MCP and DPP regarding their decision not to participate. However, our goal remains to ensure that all presidential candidates have the opportunity to engage with voters on issues that matter most,” Matonga said in the statement.
The Task Force emphasized the critical role presidential debates play in strengthening democracy, citing five key benefits,informing voters, enhancing accountability, clarifying manifesto pledges, testing leadership alertness, and reinforcing the principle of popular sovereignty.
“While participation in debates may be voluntary, in practice, leaders are obligated by principles of accountability, responsiveness, and transparency to use such platforms to address issues of national interest,” the statement read.
“Non-participation denies citizens an opportunity to engage directly with those seeking to lead them,”Matonga added.
The Task Force further described participation in debates as a democratic duty, urging all candidates to reconsider and recognize the value these engagements bring to the electoral process.
Despite the absence of MCP and DPP, the organizers say the debates will still give Malawians the chance to hear from other candidates committed to dialogue and accountability ahead of the 2025 elections.
