As Malawi gears up for its 2025 General Elections, slated for September 16, senior governance and human rights advocate Undule Mwakasungula has challenged political parties to prioritize fielding leaders of high integrity, emphasized, it is crucial for achieving Agenda 2063 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

Mwakasungula cautioned that elective conventions should usher in leaders with unimpeachable integrity, particularly those seeking presidential positions.

“Those charged with corruption, bribery, or embezzling public funds should not be prioritized,” he stressed.

Malawi has made significant strides in its democratic processes, marked by peaceful transitions of power and successful national conventions.

However, Mwakasungula noted a growing trend of individuals crossing over from one party to another in search of leadership opportunities without considering the party’s best interests.

To mitigate this, Mwakasungula advised parties which have not yet conducted their conventions like the United Transformation Movement to enforce a rigorous vetting mechanism, preventing candidates with unresolved legal issues or corruption cases from contesting elective leadership positions.

“While it’s crucial to welcome new talent, parties must protect their core vision and values from opportunists seeking leadership for personal gains,” he warned.

Though Mwakasungula didn’t mention names, his comments seemed to allude to the candidacy of former Reserve Bank governor Dalitso Kabambe for the UTM leadership.

He cautioned that allowing outsiders with questionable integrity could compromise the party’s interests.

Mwakasungula’s emphasis on integrity resonates with research on political persuasion, highlighting the importance of trust and integrity in leadership.