The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) has reaffirmed its support for Malawi in holding peaceful elections, urging political parties to embrace dialogue whenever disputes arise, especially around election results.
Speaking in Lilongwe during the launch of the AU-COMESA Pre-Election Initiative, Dr. Oita Otyang, COMESA’s Head of Governance, Peace and Security, stressed that continuous dialogue among political parties, institutions, communities, and citizens is key to resolving misunderstandings and strengthening democracy.
“Democracy is a daily practice,” said Otyang, adding that COMESA will continue to quietly facilitate dialogue in Malawi, especially around polling stations, to help maintain trust in the electoral process. He commended Malawi for its long-standing commitment to peace, unity, and justice, which he said continues to inspire other African nations.
On his part, Dr. McLloyd Polepole, Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the presence of COMESA and the AU shows a shared commitment to safeguarding Malawi’s democracy and ensuring that the upcoming elections are held in peace and inclusivity. He reminded Malawians that protecting democracy is a collective responsibility of government, civil society, political parties, faith leaders, and citizens.
Meanwhile, COMESA, the AU, chiefs, civil society, MISA Malawi, and other stakeholders have signed a joint agreement pledging to promote peaceful elections and urging all political parties to respect the electoral results.
(By Andrew Kadzonda)
