The Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) of Mangochi Diocese is urging residents of Mangochi, Balaka, and Machinga to vote peacefully and responsibly during the 16 September 2025 General Elections. In its statement, CCJP highlights the importance of informed decision-making, issue-focused campaigns, and respect for all candidates.
Key Messages for Voters
CCJP advises voters to compare their current living conditions with the past and to evaluate candidates’ manifestos critically. The commission encourages citizens to attend campaign rallies, make informed choices, and exercise their constitutional right to vote. It further recommends voting for “the lesser evil, the ‘Bolankoni’ candidate,” even if voters feel dissatisfied with all contenders.
Expectations for Political Candidates
CCJP calls on all aspiring candidates to run issue-based campaigns, avoid personal attacks, and refrain from inciting violence. The commission warns candidates against using young people as agents of violence and urges them to accept election results in good faith.
Role of Media and Public Institutions
The commission urges the media to provide fair coverage to all candidates and to avoid misleading the public. It calls on public institutions, including the police and district commissioners, to remain impartial. CCJP also appeals to civil society organizations to strengthen civic education to ensure credible and peaceful elections.
Youth and Women’s Participation
CCJP warns the youth against allowing politicians to exploit them for acts of violence, stressing that such behaviour undermines both their future and national stability. It also encourages voters to support qualified female candidates to promote gender equality and the 50-50 campaign in political leadership.
Rev. Simon Mundisiye, Director of the Social Development Directorate of Mangochi Diocese, signed the statement, urging all citizens to remain peaceful and prayerful as the nation approaches the polls.
By: Alinafe Kunsamala- Communications Office