Political parties in Dowa have committed to a clean and peaceful campaign ahead of the September 16, 2025 general elections.

The commitment was made Friday at Misi Village in Traditional Authority (TA) Msakambewa in the district when the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Trust engaged political parties, the youth and religious leaders on peace building, cohesion and peaceful campaign.

Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Chairperson for Dowa East, Dorothy Chunga, said her party is committed to conduct an exemplary campaign once the official period starts on July 14.

“At MCP, there is no room for violence. As a party, we are committing that we will conduct peaceful and exemplary campaign.

“Our campaign will only focus on developmental ideologies, about what we are going to do for the people to improve their lives, and not badmouthing. Violence and MCP does not go together. Violence and development do not go together either,” said Chunga.

United Democratic Front (UDF) Deputy District Governor for Dowa, Gamphani Phiri, said the party is committed to ensure a violent free campaign.

He said they will only focus on convincing people to vote for the party and its candidates, while maintaining mutual respect for others.

NICE District Programmes Officer for Dowa, Alinafe Chikakuda, said political parties have a responsibility to ensure a peaceful campaign which will not only promote harmony and coexistence amongst people, but also act as a foundation for peaceful elections.

“We are not affiliated to any political party; we only promote democracy which provides for human rights, amongst which is the right to vote. People have the right to make informed choices which can only happen if there is meaningful campaign.

“That is why we are engaging you, political parties, to assure the people that you will conduct campaign free from violence, which will delve on issues affecting people, and what you are going to do about those once ushered into power,” she said.

Chikakuda also asked people to respect all laws governing elections and respect the outcome of the elections.

“We expect free, fair, transparent and creditable elections. So, if this is to be achieved, we need to have the responsibility to maintain peace and fairness in the campaign,” said Chikakuda.

Senior Group Chiwenga of TA Msakambewa described the engagement as important saying there are a lot of political parties and candidates expected to bring messages to the people with the hope of being elected.

“We believe from here, aspirants will know how to package and present their messages in a manner that will uphold peace. It has also enlightened leaders and potential voters on their responsibilities,” he said.

He, therefore, asked for future engagements which will bring aspirants together for a debate.