LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-As Malawi heads to the polls for a crucial national election, civil rights groups are calling on citizens to come out in large numbers and exercise their constitutional right to vote peacefully and responsibly.
The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) and the Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) have jointly urged Malawians to resist political manipulation and uphold democratic values throughout the electoral process.
In an interview with Maravi Post, HRDC Chairperson Gift Trapence emphasized the importance of civic participation in building a democratic and accountable government.
“We are calling upon all Malawians to exercise their right to vote by turning up in large numbers on election day. This is not just a right but a duty to the nation,” said Trapence
He warned against the growing threat of fake news, misinformation, and politically motivated propaganda designed to disrupt peace and mislead the electorate.
“We are in a time where fake news is widespread, often funded by individuals and groups with interests in destabilizing the peace. Malawians must verify any information before sharing or acting on it,” Trapence cautioned.
He further urged voters, especially the youth, not to be used as agents of violence or division by politicians, but instead to act as ambassadors of peace and truth.
On his part, HRCC Chairperson Robert Mkwezalamba echoed the call for mass voter turnout and appealed for tolerance and national unity, regardless of the election outcome.
“Let us all go out and vote in numbers. Avoid voter apathy and accept the results with maturity. At the end of the day, we are all looking for leadership that can take Malawi forward. Once the voting is over, life must go on,” Mkwezalamba said.
This election marks six years since the last vote was held, following political reforms and legal challenges that led to delays and electoral restructuring.
The previous elections were marred by allegations of irregularities, which sparked nationwide protests and eventually led to a historic court-ordered re-run in 2020.
The current vote is widely viewed as a test of Malawi’s democratic maturity and institutional credibility, especially as citizens look for solutions to economic hardships, corruption, youth unemployment, and public service delivery.
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has assured the public of a credible and transparent process, encouraging registered voters to check their names and turn up at polling stations on the set date.
Human rights bodies, faith leaders, civil society, and regional observers continue to call for peace, unity, and the protection of democratic institutions throughout the electoral period.
