BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Chairperson of the Concerned Citizens Group, Edward Kambanje, has urged Malawians to remain calm and patient as the country awaits the official results of the recently concluded elections.
His appeal comes at a time when tensions are rising following reports of some political parties and candidates prematurely declaring victory.
Addressing the news conference in Blantyre,Kambanje emphasized that the ongoing phase of the electoral process reflects not only the resilience of Malawi’s democratic institutions but also the nation’s collective potential for growth and stability.
“With voting now concluded, we must remember that this process belongs to every Malawian. It is a test of our democracy and our shared values,” Kambanje said.
“We call on all political leaders, parties, and supporters to exercise maximum restraint and allow the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to complete its work in an orderly and transparent manner,”he added.
According to Kambanje, the elections recorded an impressive voter turnout of over 50%.He noted that the process was not without challenges including delays in opening polling centers and slow transmission of results to the main tallying centers.
The Concerned Citizens Group has thrown its weight behind the statement issued by the Malawi Law Society (MLS), which stressed the urgent need for all stakeholders to uphold the rule of law and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process.
“Only the Malawi Electoral Commission is mandated by law to declare election results,” Kambanje reiterated.
“Any premature announcements undermine public trust, incite tensions and could provoke violence during this critical time,”he explained.
He further urged law enforcement agencies to act decisively to prevent acts of provocation, political aggression, or violence.
“No form of political provocation should be tolerated. Law enforcement must step up to protect the integrity of the process and the safety of citizens,” he said.
Kambanje called on political leaders, religious institutions, civil society organizations, the media and the general public to unite in promoting peace and stability as MEC finalizes the process.
“This is a defining moment for Malawi. The will of the people must be respected, not just as a pillar of our democracy but also as the foundation for our nation’s social and economic progress,” he said.
The Concerned Citizens Group also reminded the public that premature claims of victory or attempts to disrupt the process risk damaging the country’s reputation on both the African and global stage.
As tensions simmer, Kambanje concluded with a powerful message of unity and hope by saying “Let peace prevail. Let no one provoke violence or chaos. This election is bigger than any single party or candidate. May God bless Malawi and protect us all.”
The Malawi Electoral Commission has yet to announce when the official results will be released, urging the public to remain patient as tallying continues.