By Jones Gadama
In a bid to promote peaceful coexistence and national harmony, former President Dr. Bakili Muluzi has called on Malawians to maintain peace before, during, and after the upcoming General Elections scheduled for September 16, 2025.
Dr. Muluzi emphasized the importance of political tolerance, urging parties to put aside ideological differences and coexist peacefully.
The former President, who served from 1994 to 2004, made the appeal during a courtesy call by the Malawi Commission for Peace and Unity (MPUC) at his residence.
Dr. Muluzi stressed that democracy can only thrive when citizens respect each other, regardless of their political affiliations. “Political parties should learn to coexist,” he said, adding that, “Our democracy can only thrive if we learn to respect each other, regardless of political affiliations.”
MPUC Chairperson, Mary Nkosi, revealed that the institution is engaging various political stakeholders to serve as ambassadors of peace throughout the election period.
“We are meeting with key political figures across the country, encouraging them to commit to peaceful conduct before, during, and after the polls,” Nkosi said.
The Commission’s efforts aim to promote national harmony and conflict resolution, particularly during politically sensitive periods.
The Malawi Commission for Peace and Unity was established to address gaps in peacebuilding and conflict prevention, management, and resolution.
Recently, the Commission launched a five-year strategic plan (2024-2029) and a Communication Strategy, which outline specific objectives and priorities for promoting peace and unity in Malawi.
These documents are critical in guiding the Commission’s work as the country prepares for the 2025 General Elections.
According to Nkosi, the strategic plan emphasizes core values such as independence, integrity, respect for human dignity, impartiality, and inclusivity.
The Commission is committed to strengthening local peace-building structures to prevent electoral violence and conflicts.
“The government is committed to ensuring Malawians remain peaceful and united, regardless of their ethnic, religious, political, or other differences,” said Deputy Minister of Local Government, Joyce Chitsulo, during the launch of the strategic plan.
Dr. Muluzi’s call for peace is timely, given the country’s history of politically motivated violence.
The 2025 General Elections present an opportunity for Malawians to demonstrate their commitment to peaceful coexistence and democratic values.
As the elections draw closer, the Malawi Commission for Peace and Unity will continue to engage with political stakeholders and citizens to promote a culture of peace and unity.
The Commission’s work is crucial in ensuring that Malawi remains peaceful and stable, particularly during election periods.
As the country approaches the 2025 General Elections, Malawians must come together to promote peace, tolerance, and unity.
By doing so, they can create a conducive environment for free and fair elections, which will ultimately contribute to the country’s democratic growth and development.
