Reported by Suleman Chitera, Mangochi,
The Centre for Social Concern (CfSC) has urged political leaders, religious figures, traditional authorities, and key stakeholders in Mangochi to unite in promoting peace and tolerance ahead of Malawi’s General Election scheduled for September 16.
This call was made during a landmark memorandum of understanding (MoU) signing ceremony held at the Mangochi Municipal Council Hall, aimed at ensuring peaceful coexistence throughout the election period.
Speaking at the event, CfSC deputy director Father Matthews Banseh emphasized that political competition must not threaten the district’s social fabric.
“The forthcoming elections should be an opportunity to strengthen social cohesion,” said Banseh. “Let us come together and refuse to be misled by politicians. Any leader or party that promotes violence should not be followed or voted for. What we need here in Mangochi is a peaceful election.”
In attendance were representatives of major political parties, including Deen Iman of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and Salire M’dala of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), who both pledged to uphold peace during the campaign season.
“We believe peaceful and orderly elections are possible in Mangochi,” said Iman. “It starts with us as leaders.”
District Commissioner Davie Chigwenembe commended CfSC for taking the lead in promoting unity, saying the MoU serves as a binding commitment to reject violence and embrace dialogue during the electoral process.
Earlier, the stakeholders joined a solidarity walk from Soko Bus Stage to the council hall — a symbolic gesture demonstrating collective commitment to harmony.
As tensions often rise during elections, CfSC’s initiative is being hailed as a timely intervention to safeguard Mangochi’s peace and stability.
