The announcement by the Public Affairs Committee (PAC) that it will engage the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to address rising political violence is not only timely—it is essential for preserving Malawi’s fragile democracy.
As the country edges closer to the highly anticipated 2025 general elections, early signs of intolerance and hostility between political camps must be confronted with urgency, honesty, and resolve.
Political violence, whether physical or psychological, is not just a threat to the safety of individuals; it is a direct assault on the democratic principles of free expression, multiparty competition, and citizen participation.
The fact that Malawi, 61 years after independence and over three decades since the reintroduction of multiparty democracy, is still grappling with political intolerance should concern every citizen and institution committed to peace and progress.
Civil society organisations like PAC have historically played a pivotal role in mediating political tension.
Their neutrality, grassroots reach, and moral authority uniquely position them to convene dialogue, bridge partisan divides, and restore public trust.
At a time when state institutions often appear compromised or slow to act, PAC’s initiative to mediate between the MCP and DPP demonstrates the continuing relevance of civil society in safeguarding national unity.
But dialogue alone is not enough.
The underlying culture of winner-takes-all politics, youth manipulation, hate speech, and impunity must be dismantled.
Malawi’s political actors must commit—publicly and sincerely—to non-violence pacts, transparent campaigning, and issue-based politics.
Party leaders must take responsibility for the conduct of their supporters and speak against violence not only when it affects them, but also when it is perpetrated in their name.
Law enforcement agencies must be empowered and equipped to act impartially in investigating and prosecuting political violence.
Selective justice only breeds resentment and reinforces the perception that some groups are above the law.
As we approach 2025, Malawi needs more than election results—it needs peaceful, credible, and inclusive elections.
This will only be possible if civil society, political parties, electoral bodies, traditional leaders, the media, and citizens work in concert to demand and uphold democratic values.
The PAC’s mediation initiative should be supported by all well-meaning Malawians.
It must serve as a launchpad for broader national dialogue—not just between parties, but between leaders and citizens, between youth and elders, and between victims and perpetrators of violence.
Peace is not the absence of elections; it is the presence of justice, tolerance, and maturity in how we choose our leaders.