Malawi’s Future “depends on choices we make today”: Catholic Commission Officials Urge Electorate to Vote “with courage"

The officials further appeal, “All registered voters should turn out in large numbers on polling day. Go early, vote peacefully, and without fear.”

“Do not be discouraged or silenced by anger or intimidation—your voice will only be heard if you cast your vote,” the CCJP officials say, adding that the Southern Africa nation “stands at a crossroads” and that its “economy, governance, and peace” largely depends on the outcome of the September 16 polls.

For them, “it is the duty of every citizen to take part in electing good leaders.”

They highlight the relevance of political agenda contained in political parties’ manifestos and urge the electorate to pay attention to them.

“Check if they (manifestos) contain real, practical, and truthful policies that address the needs of people and help free our country from the chains of poverty,” Malawi’s CCJP officials say.

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They urge Malawi’s eligible voters to “choose leaders of integrity, courage, and vision” and caution against voting based on ethnicity or region, a practice they say undermines “electoral credibility and destroys national unity.”

Some 7.2 million eligible voters are expected to take part in the September 16 polls to elect their President, Members of Parliament (MPs) and local councillors across 35 local governments.

The Presidential poll has attracted 17 candidates, including the incumbent seeking re-election, President Lazarus Chakwera of the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and two former Heads of State, Peter Mutharika of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and Dr. Joyce Banda vying on the People's Party (PP).

The predominantly Christian nation (about 80%) has deepening economic challenges and is one of Africa’s most climate-vulnerable countries.

In the two-page statement, CCJP officials condemn vote-buying and discourage eligible voters from being swayed by gifts, money, or short-term benefits. “Such things are temporary. What matters most is electing quality leadership for our nation,” they say.

They emphasize the need for a peaceful atmosphere during the electioneering period and demand the assurance by the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) that all systems will be in place “to deliver free, fair, and credible polls.”

“Citizens, political parties, and leaders must refrain from inciting violence, insults, and hate speech. Let us approach this election as an opportunity to choose leaders who will serve with justice, humility, and dedication to the common good of every citizen,” Malawi’s CCJP officials say in their September 14 statement ahead of the September 16 polls.

Nicholas Waigwa is a Kenyan multimedia journalist and broadcast technician with a professional background in creating engaging news stories and broadcasting content across multiple media platforms. He is passionate about the media apostolate and Catholic Church communication.