Inkosi ya Makosi M’mbelwa V of Mzimba has urged political parties to coexist peacefully as Malawi approaches the September 16 general elections, emphasizing that unity is crucial for the country’s developmental progress.
The Ngoni chief made the call on Saturday at Hora Heritage Center in Mzimba during this year’s Umthetho Festival, a cultural event that brings together the Ngonis of Mzimba.
During the event, M’mbelwa V highlighted the significance of the festival, which coincides with the election campaign period, saying it serves as a unifier for people of different political affiliations.
He then called on politicians to conduct their campaigns peacefully in a bid to promote a conducive environment for citizens to exercise their voting rights.
In his speech, President Lazarus Chakwera, who graced the event, emphasized the need for various cultural groups in the country to respect each other’s customs and traditions as one Malawi.
“We have different tribes in the country consisting of many other cultural groups. It is therefore important that all of us unite without compromising either political ambitions, influence from foreign cultures, or education standards,” Chakwera said.
Meanwhile, Chairperson for the National Organising Committee of the Umthetho Festival, Emma Kaliya, has described the event as a success.
This year’s event was held under the theme “Cultural Diversity: The Foundation of Peaceful Co-existence.”