* The vote is your voice, use it peacefully and wisely — violence does not build a nation; unity does
By Fostina Mkandawire, MANA
With just three days before Malawians go to the polls on Tuesday, September 16, President Lazarus Chakwera has urged citizens to turn out in large numbers, saying the election is a chance to safeguard the country’s progress and unity.
Advertisement
Speaking at a mass rally at Salima Primary School in the area of Senior Chief Maganga yesterday, Chakwera said the vote would determine whether his administration continues initiatives such as protecting persons with albinism, distributing relief food, expanding economic opportunities, and implementing durable infrastructure projects.
“Four days remain for you to send me as your servant to continue serving you,” he said. “Four days remain for me to demonstrate that elections can be free and fair. Four days remain for us to continue building roads and bridges.”
The President stressed that his government has made strides in improving infrastructure, highlighting ongoing road and bridge construction projects across the country as investments that will enhance trade, connectivity, and access to markets and services.
Chakwera further highlighted his administration’s efforts to protect persons with albinism, noting intensified security measures and community awareness campaigns aimed at eliminating attacks against them.
“A government that does not protect its most vulnerable citizens has failed its people. We cannot allow that to happen in Malawi,” he said.
On economic empowerment, the President cited initiatives under the National Economic Empowerment Fund (NEEF), which has provided loans to small- and medium-scale entrepreneurs — emphasising that the programme enables young people and women to start or expand businesses, contributing to job creation and poverty reduction.
“We want Malawians, regardless of their background, to access capital and participate in building the economy. That is why we will continue strengthening loan facilities, so that nobody is left behind.”
He also appealed for peace and tolerance as the campaign period winds down, urging Malawians not to be misled by propaganda or engage in violence.
“The vote is your voice, use it peacefully and wisely — violence does not build a nation; unity does,” he said.
Senior Chief Maganga, thanked the President for elevating her to senior chieftaincy and commended him for promoting women by appointing two female chiefs to similar senior positions.
Senior Chief Maganga
“I am now walking tall because the President believed in my capabilities as a woman. Being elevated has given me confidence to continue serving my community,” she said.
In his remarks, MCP secretary general, Richard Chimwendo Banda said Chakwera’s government had delivered across the country despite challenges such as CoVID-19, cholera, and natural disasters.
“The President has people’s interests at heart. Teachers have been promoted, people are accessing loans to purchase farm inputs, and development is spread across the country,” he said, urging Malawians to give Chakwera another mandate.
The President was on his campaign trail across the southern region and the Salima rally was a detour on his way to Lilongwe.
He is concluding the campaign period at Civo Stadium where thousands of MCP supporters gathered and Chakwera commended them for maintaining peace throughout the campaign period.
Large crowds trekking to Civo Stadium
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to uplifting the wellbeing of Malawians and building a self-reliant nation.
In his remarks, MCP Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda described President Chakwera as a champion of development.
He highlighted several projects implemented under Chakwera’s administration, including the construction of modern roads, improved access to clean water, and safeguarding the welfare of civil servants.
Chimwendo further noted that President Chakwera conducted 21 whistle-stop tours across the country, which were characterised by a powerful yet violence-free campaign.
He also commended Malawians for registering in large numbers ahead of the September 16 elections.—Editing by Maravi Express
Advertisement
* Weather update
