Malawi: *Machinga Political Parties Unite Against Violence

By Smile Hamilton

In a groundbreaking move, political parties in Machinga have joined forces to combat violence against women, youths, and people with disabilities seeking to contest in the 2025 general elections.

The participating parties include the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), United Transformation Movement (UTM), Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), People’s Party (PP), and United Democratic Front (UDF), among others.

At an engagement meeting organized by the Women’s Legal Resources Centre (WOLREC) and Oxfam, UTM District Governor Macdonald Makanjira emphasized the importance of creating a level playing field for underrepresented groups.

He stressed that promoting inclusivity and addressing violence against marginalized individuals is crucial for a fair and just electoral process.

Echoing Makanjira’s sentiments, Annie Lameck, Governor for AFORD in Machinga district, highlighted the need for parties to work together in sensitizing their followers and communities to protect and create opportunities for everyone, including women, youths, and marginalized individuals.

Machinga district Gender Officer, Rita Sukasuka, expressed optimism about the district’s readiness to see peace and increased participation from women, youths, and people with disabilities in the coming elections.

This collaborative effort aims to address the pervasive issue of violence against women in politics, promoting a more inclusive and peaceful political environment.

By working together, these parties hope to foster a more representative democracy, ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens to participate in the electoral process.