A coalition of various religious groups in Zomba District has held prayers for peace and unity ahead of the country’s upcoming general elections scheduled for 16th September.
Speaking during the prayer ceremony held on Thursday at Chikala sports ground in the district, the leader of the coalition, Bishop Samson William, said the aim of the prayers was to ensure that the elections proceed smoothly and without any disturbances.
Bishop William, who leads Praise Chapel International, emphasized that unity, cooperation, and peace are crucial as the country prepares for the elections.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining peace even after the elections are over.
“We want all candidates contesting for various positions, from ward councillors to the presidency, to maintain peace whether they win or lose. This country is peaceful and God-fearing, and we are praying for God to guide us through this election,” said William.
He also said that followers of different political parties should not engage in violence, reminding them that all citizens are Malawians with a shared goal of developing the nation, regardless of political affiliation.
He further encouraged voters to be responsible when casting their votes on 16th September by choosing leaders who are capable of driving development in the country.
He called on all contesting candidates to make a commitment before God to maintain peace, even if they lose the election.
In his remarks, one of the independent parliamentary candidates for the Zomba Mtonya constituency, Hoppikings Chabwera Masanga, said he is ready to bring change to the area if elected to represent it in Parliament.
He pledged to ensure food security in the area by initiating irrigation farming to combat the hunger that is currently affecting many families.
He also promised to find various ways of supporting youth and women through small-scale businesses and vocational training programs so that people can be economically self-reliant.
“If elected, I will work to end hunger in this area, because people are really struggling. We will also improve road infrastructure to make transportation easier, as people face challenges in getting their farm produce to markets due to poor road conditions,” he said.
He assured religious leaders that even if he loses the election, he will maintain peace and work together with whoever wins, in order to promote development in Zomba Mtonya constituency.
Meanwhile, Chief Bwana said he hopes that whoever wins the election will address the numerous challenges affecting the area, such as severe hunger, shortage of fertilizer, poor road conditions, and youth unemployment.
