By Burnett Munthali
President Lazarus Chakwera has called on all Malawians of voting age to participate in large numbers in the ongoing voter registration exercise, which has officially commenced today in various parts of the country. The President emphasized the importance of registering early, regardless of whether individuals have identified a candidate to vote for, stating that failing to register now could lead to regret later.
In a televised address broadcast on the state-owned Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC), President Chakwera appealed to the public, encouraging them to seize this opportunity to exercise their democratic right to vote.
“Even if you have not yet found a candidate to vote for, I urge you to register now. You may regret it later if you miss this chance,” Dr. Chakwera said, underscoring the critical nature of the ongoing voter registration drive.
Call to Political Parties, Chiefs, and Religious Leaders
In his address, the President also called upon political parties, traditional leaders, and religious figures to actively encourage their followers to participate in the voter registration process. He acknowledged the influential role these leaders play in shaping public opinion and stressed the importance of collective effort in ensuring widespread participation in the elections.
“I urge all political parties, our respected chiefs, and religious leaders to encourage your people to register. This is the only way we can ensure everyone has a say in who leads our country,” Chakwera added, highlighting that the right to vote is a crucial pillar of Malawi’s democracy.
The Voter Registration Process
The voter registration exercise, which has just begun, is a critical step in preparation for the upcoming general elections. Registration centers have been set up across various districts, with the Electoral Commission urging Malawians to take advantage of the ongoing registration period to avoid long queues and delays as the deadline approaches.
This voter registration drive is especially significant for first-time voters and individuals who may have relocated since the last elections. By registering, they ensure their eligibility to vote in next year’s elections, which will determine key leadership positions at various levels of government.
Importance of Active Participation
President Chakwera’s call for widespread voter registration reflects the government’s commitment to promoting an inclusive electoral process. With Malawi’s elections fast approaching, ensuring that every eligible citizen is registered is critical to the functioning of the country’s democracy.
Malawi has a long history of peaceful and democratic elections, and voter turnout has often been a crucial factor in determining the outcome of both local and national leadership contests. The president’s appeal is intended to remind citizens of their responsibility to take part in the democratic process, which ultimately shapes the nation’s future.
Conclusion
As the voter registration exercise gets underway, President Lazarus Chakwera’s message is clear—now is the time for Malawians to take action and register to vote. Whether or not they have yet decided on a candidate, participation in the registration process ensures that they will not miss out on the opportunity to exercise their democratic rights in the upcoming elections.
With support from political parties, traditional authorities, and religious leaders, it is hoped that the registration process will see high turnout across the country, paving the way for a robust and representative election.
