By Suleman Chitera
The African Union (AU) has called on political parties in Malawi to prioritize dialogue, peace, and unity as the country prepares for the September 16, 2025 general elections.
Speaking in Lilongwe on Thursday during the official launch of the AU–COMESA Peaceful Election Initiative, Akok Madut, Head of the Mediation and Dialogue Division at the AU Commission, said mediation and constructive dialogue are key to reducing political misunderstandings and strengthening trust among competing parties.
Madut assured Malawians that the AU remains committed to supporting the country throughout the electoral cycle to ensure that the upcoming polls are free, fair, credible, and peaceful.
“Dialogue among political players is the cornerstone of peace. By fostering trust and cooperation, Malawi can set an example of democratic maturity in Africa,” he emphasized.
Malawi Government Echoes AU Call for Peaceful Elections
Speaking at the same event, Mwayiwawo Polepole, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, echoed the AU’s sentiments, stressing that elections should be a “celebration of democracy and not a source of conflict or division.”
Polepole highlighted the importance of collective responsibility, urging all stakeholders—political leaders, electoral bodies, security agencies, civil society, and citizens—to work together to safeguard Malawi’s democratic gains.
Broad Stakeholder Participation
The launch of the AU–COMESA Peaceful Election Initiative attracted a wide range of participants, including traditional leaders, faith-based leaders, representatives of political parties, youth, and children. Their involvement underlines the importance of inclusive participation in nurturing peace and democratic values.
AU–COMESA Commitment to Peace in Malawi
Through this initiative, the AU and COMESA aim to support Malawi in strengthening electoral dialogue, mediation mechanisms, and conflict prevention strategies. The goal is to ensure that political competition does not escalate into violence, but rather strengthens democracy and unity.
As Malawians prepare to vote on September 16, both local and international observers stress the need for peace, tolerance, and maturity during the campaign period and beyond.
Conclusion
With the AU and COMESA pledging full support and the government calling for unity, Malawi stands at a critical juncture. The path to credible and peaceful elections depends on dialogue, inclusivity, and commitment from all political actors. If embraced, these principles can help Malawi showcase a model of democratic stability on the African continent.
