Likuni Parish CCJP Urges Chiefs to Champion Political Tolerance Ahead of Malawi’s General Elections

The Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) at Likuni Parish in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe has urged local chiefs to promote political tolerance as Malawi prepares for its general elections on September 16.

This call was made during a meeting at the Parish, where CCJP and chiefs gathered to discuss how best they can foster peace and unity among different political parties in their respective areas during the campaign period.

Likuni Parish CCJP chairperson, Francisco Lead, emphasized the crucial role chiefs play in holding politicians accountable while also educating their communities on the importance of coexistence.

According to Lead, CCJP and chiefs have agreed to convene a debate among all political candidates contesting in Likuni, where the candidates will sign a social contract, committing to the promises they will make during campaign period regarding the constituency’s development.

“We organized this meeting to engage chiefs on political tolerance and the promotion of peace. We have observed that some political parties exploit funerals in various areas to conduct campaigns, which is highly inappropriate, especially since the official campaign period has not yet begun,” Lead stated.

In his remarks, Group Village Head Malili commended Likuni Parish CCJP for facilitating the discussion, stating that it has empowered chiefs to take an active role in peacebuilding efforts within their communities.

Malili also urged fellow chiefs to take the lead in condemning political violence occurring in their areas.

The meeting brought together chiefs from different areas under Likuni to strategize on ways to uphold peace and ensure politicians remain accountable ahead of the general elections.

By Titus Jata Phiri