Various electoral stakeholders in Lumbadzi constituency have pledged to ensure that there is peace and unity ahead of the September 16 General Elections.
They pledged on Wednesday at the School of Aviation during an anti-political violence meeting that Lumbadzi police station, in collaboration with the National Initiative for Civic Education (Nice) Trust, organised for representatives from all political parties, traditional leaders, the youths and faith leaders in the area.
Speaking during the event, the pastors’ fraternal chairperson for Lumbadzi, Bishop Stowell Kumwenda, appealed to pastors to desist from making prophesies on who would emerge as the winner to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
“It is not for us to say who would win during an election. This often disturbs eligible voters and leads to voter apathy. Many times these are false prophesies which is not good,” he said.
Kumwenda then said the pastors are engaging in constant prayers and encouraging pastors to preach peace to ensure peaceful elections.
MCP chairperson for Lumbadzi constituency, Chimwemwe Simpho, commended the engagement, saying it has helped them map the way forward to ensure a peaceful electoral process.
“We will strive to ensure that there is peace by also reminding our supporters of the need to maintain peace,” he said.
Democratic Progressive Party( DPP) youth director for Lumbadzi constituency, Dickson Mapepa observed that hate speech fuels violence and said they will ensure that they promote peace by desisting from the same.
On his part, Lumbadzi police officer in charge, Deputy Commissioner Denis Banda, said the meeting has kindled hope for a peaceful electoral process in the run-up to the September 16 elections.
“We thought we should prepare one another to ensure that there is peace and unity among various stakeholders and communities surrounding Lumbadzi trading centre. As police, we will provide security to everyone to make sure that the campaign period is peaceful and in respect for human rights” said Banda.
NICE’s district programs officer responsible for Lilongwe urban, Hajira Ali, said they have decided to sensitise various leaders on the principles of democracy and the need to observe peace and unity.
Ali added: “As long as we have peace and unity, many people will be very interested to participate in the elections, as political violence puts people in fear,” he said.
The campaign period is expected to start on July 14, 2025.
By Kondwani Kandiado
