By Benjamin Kumpanje.
The Public Affairs Committee (PAC), a prominent quasi-religious body in Malawi, is orchestrating a historic peace signing ceremony today at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.
The event unites political leaders, civil society representatives, and community stakeholders to formalize a peace accord aimed at ensuring a non-violent and inclusive environment ahead of the September 16, 2025, general elections.
PAC, renowned for its advocacy for democratic governance and social justice, organizes the ceremony to address escalating concerns over electoral violence and political tensions in Malawi.
The agreement, signed by representatives of major political parties including the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), United Transformation Movement (UTM), and United Democratic Front (UDF), commits to peaceful campaigning, respect for electoral processes, and rejection of violence.
PAC Chairperson Monsignor Patrick Thawale opens the event with a call for unity, declaring, “We stand together to safeguard Malawi’s democracy and ensure peace prevails in our nation.”
The ceremony follows months of PAC-led dialogues with political parties and civic groups, spurred by recent incidents of violence during protests, including attacks on demonstrators in Lilongwe on June 26, 2025, which PAC condemned for lack of police intervention.
President Lazarus Chakwera, attending as the guest of honor, signs the accord alongside opposition leaders, pledging to uphold fair elections.
The ceremony marks a significant step in PAC’s mission to promote peace and democratic integrity in Malawi.
As the nation approaches the polls, the agreement signals hope for a peaceful electoral process, with PAC at the forefront of fostering unity.
