By Benjamin Kumphanje.
The National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Public Trust led thousands of Malawians in a vibrant peace walk in Salima on Tuesday, urging citizens, political parties, and stakeholders to ensure a peaceful campaign period leading up to the September 16, 2025, general elections.
The walk, themed “Making Democracy Work- Take part in Public Life,” aimed to foster unity and discourage violence as the nation prepares for a pivotal democratic exercise.
The event saw participation from diverse groups, including civil society organizations, religious leaders, youth groups, and community members, who marched from Kaphatenga primary ground to District Commissioner’s office
NICE District Officer for Salima Queen Mataya, emphasized the importance of maintaining calm and respect during the campaign season to safeguard Malawi’s democratic integrity.
“Peace is the Foundation of Democracy and elections are a celebration of our democracy, not a battleground.
“We urge all Malawians to campaign with dignity and respect for one another. A peaceful process ensures that every voice is heard, and every vote counts,” Mataya said.
Representatives from major political parties, including the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), United Transformation Movement (UTM), and People’s Party (PP), also participated in the walk, signaling their commitment to NICE’s call for peace.
One of independent shadow Member of Parliament for Salima Central Constituency, Gift Mazembero Banda, speaking on behalf of other contesters said, “We are here to show that political competition should not divide us.
As the September 16 elections approach, the peace walk has set a positive tone, with stakeholders uniting to ensure a violence-free campaign period.
NICE’s efforts, supported by the police and political parties, reflect a collective determination to uphold Malawi’s democratic values and promote a peaceful electoral process.
