By Comrade jumbe
Democracy, they say, is the government of the people, by the people, and for the people.
But how genuine is our claim to democracy if millions of Malawians residing abroad are denied their fundamental right to vote in general elections?
It is time for Malawi to reflect on this glaring omission, revisit our Constitution, and align our electoral practices with the ideals of true democracy.
“A House Without Foundations Cannot Stand”
The right to vote is the cornerstone of any democratic society.
Yet, our current system excludes Malawians living abroad—citizens who continue to contribute immensely to our nation through remittances, investments, and advocacy.
How can we build a thriving democracy when the voices of millions are silenced?
Some argue that enabling diaspora voting is an expensive exercise. But who told you that democracy is cheap?
Democracy is an investment—a commitment to inclusion, representation, and fairness.
The price of excluding the diaspora is far greater than the cost of facilitating their participation.
Denying them this right perpetuates injustice and weakens the legitimacy of our elections.
South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, and several other SADC nations allow their citizens abroad to vote. Are we content to be left behind in the region’s democratic progress?
The Urgency of Constitutional Interpretation
The exclusion of diaspora voters is not merely an oversight; it is a grave constitutional issue.
Our courts must rise to the occasion and interpret the Constitution in a manner that upholds the principles of universal suffrage.
If we claim to be a democratic nation, we must embrace inclusivity.
Our constitutional judges, Members of Parliament, and the Malawi Electoral Commission must take this matter seriously and act with urgency.
The Constitution should not be a document frozen in time.
“When the time is right, it does not wait for any season”—so must we adapt our laws to reflect the changing realities of our people.
We must stop clinging to outdated practices.
The world has evolved, and so must Malawi. Our diaspora is not a distant community but an integral part of our nation.
Ignoring their voices is akin to neglecting a vital organ in the body of democracy.
Let us embrace the present and do away with outdated policies zachitsamunda Pena kumazitayako.
Just Consider this: South Africa alone is home to more than an estimated 5 million Malawians if my assuming serves me well
These are not mere statistics; they are mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters who are deeply connected to our nation. By denying them the right to vote, we kill their voices and diminish their place in the democratic process. This exclusion undermines our claim to be a truly democratic nation.
How can we speak of freedom and equality when such a significant portion of our population is disenfranchised?
Let us not wait for history to judge us harshly. The time to act is now.
A Vision for 2025 and Beyond
This are some of issues which compels me to join the race for the presidency in 2025.
My vision for Malawi is one where democracy is not just a slogan but a lived reality for all citizens, regardless of where they reside
The time to rewrite our history is now,I pledge to prioritize diaspora voting and ensure that no Malawian is left behind in shaping the future of our nation.
This article is an urgent call to the President, constitutional judges, Members of Parliament, the Malawi Electoral Commission, and all relevant authorities. Let us:
- Review our Constitution to explicitly provide for diaspora voting.
- Establish a framework for voter registration and participation for Malawians abroad.
- Educate and engage our diaspora community to ensure their voices are heard. The cries of millions of Malawians abroad for inclusion cannot be ignored.
Malawi stands on the brink of a new chapter in its democratic journey.
Let this moment be a turning point. Let us honor the sacrifices of those who fought for our democracy by ensuring it serves all Malawians, at home and abroad.
Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive nation where every voice matters.
The time for action is now. Let this call be heard far and wide, reaching the desks of all who have the power to effect change.
Let us not kill democracy by neglecting its lifeblood—the right of every citizen to vote.
“Palibe munthu amene angalime munda wake ali ndi manja omangidwa”—”No one can cultivate their field with their hands tied.” It is time to untie the hands of our diaspora and let them help cultivate Malawi’s democratic future.
My pen is mightier than a Sword
