This is our time: UDF’s Rahim Elias charts a youth-led future for Lilongwe Masintha

As Malawi heads towards the 2025 general elections, youthful candidates are emerging with bold visions for change, and among them is Rahim Elias, the United Democratic Front (UDF)’s shadow Member of Parliament for Lilongwe Masintha.

Following submitting his nomination papers at Chiwoko Primary School, Rahim Elias shared his reflections in an exclusive interview with Malawi 24.

“My name is Rahim Elias, Vice President of the UDF and shadow MP for Lilongwe Masintha,” he began.

He described the day as “very hopeful for the youth of Malawi.”

According to Elias, it marked a milestone in youth representation.

He proudly identified himself as a youth leader within what he called a “youthful political party.”

“Our president is youthful,” he stated.

“I am youthful as his vice.”

He emphasized that even the Secretary General of the party is also a youth.

“It’s a team full of young people,” he added.

He believes this is a powerful signal for every young person in Malawi and his constituency.

Reflecting on the party’s legacy, Elias said, “The UDF ushered in democracy in Malawi.”

He stressed that it is the only party that has never been disgraced out of power.

“As a second-generation leader within the UDF, I am determined to restore the party’s presence,” he affirmed.

He described the party not just as a political group, but as a “youth movement.”

He praised the party’s manifesto, highlighting its central theme: “Business First.”

He explained that “Business First” means survival depends on financial empowerment.

“No money, no food,” he said.

He emphasised that without economic stability, development cannot happen.

“Money comes first, then development follows,” he asserted.

Turning to his connection with the constituency, Elias revealed he was born in Kawale and raised in Chilinde.

He stood just behind Chiwoko Primary School and pointed out, “This is where our house was.”

“I did my primary schooling at Chilinde,” he added.

His roots in the area drive his deep concern for local development.

“I intend to prioritise development a lot,” he said.

He criticised the mismanagement of Constituency Development Funds (CDF), saying, “CDF funds are not accounted for.”

He observed that some MPs and councillors treat the funds as their personal property.

“But CDF funds belong to the people,” he emphasised.

To address this, Elias wants to introduce a “Constituency Development Office.”

This office, he explained, would be managed by block leaders, teachers, and trusted community members.

“They are the ones who know the true needs of this area,” he noted.

He expressed a desire to see better roads in the constituency.

He wants schools like Chiwoko Primary to have proper toilets.

He also called for electricity to be installed in schools.

Speaking about Masintha Grounds, Elias remarked, “Many political gatherings happen at Masintha.”

He proposed turning it into a “mini stadium.”

He envisions a small library and games area for youth to spend their time constructively.

“Instead of spending their time drinking, youth could be learning or playing,” he said.

Elias urged a focus beyond party lines.

“We should look at what is good for us,” he said.

“Let’s look beyond party colours.”

He encouraged voters to ask themselves, “Where do we want Malawi to be?”

He reminded Malawians that the country is our only home.

“Our kids and grandkids will still live here,” he stressed.

He lamented the number of youth leaving Malawi to seek opportunities abroad.

“They travel to South Africa and beyond,” he said.

He pointed out the dangers they face, including xenophobia.

“We want our youth to stay in Malawi,” he insisted.

He envisions youth owning businesses and building the economy locally.

“Not everybody has to be educated,” he noted.

Drawing inspiration from China, he explained how vocational training starts early.

“They train children from a young age to be truck drivers or carpenters,” he said.

He proposed adopting a similar approach in Malawi.

“Let’s bring this initiative here,” he suggested.

He stressed the importance of preparing the next generation early.

“Malawi is rich,” he declared.

He noted the country has various natural resources, including minerals.

“But why are we still suffering?” he asked.

He questioned why Malawians are forced to travel abroad for work.

“We want young people to stay and work here,” he said.

He believes youth can help develop Malawi.

“I’m offering so much,” he declared.

“I have so many ideas.”

Malawi will go to the polls on 16 September 2025.