King calls for peaceful, credible elections in Malawi
By Kwanele Dhladhla
His Majesty King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Eswatini, who is also the Incoming Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, has called upon Malawians to uphold peace, unity, and democratic principles as they head to the polls.
On Tuesday, September 16, Malawians will vote to elect a President, Members of Parliament, and Councillors in line with their Constitution and electoral laws.
His Majesty expressed confidence that Malawi, long admired for its tradition of peace and stability, will once again demonstrate its commitment to democracy.
“Malawi has a long-standing tradition of peace and stability. I am confident that during and in the aftermath of these elections, Malawi will maintain its reputation as a peaceful nation that upholds democratic principles and conducts peaceful elections,” King Mswati III said.
At the invitation of the Government of Malawi, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has deployed an Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) to oversee the process.
The mission is being led by Shiselweni Regional Administrator and former Deputy Prime Minister Themba Masuku. It will cover the pre-election period, polling day, and post-election activities, in line with the revised SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections (2021).
These principles, adopted by all SADC Member States, promote regular, free, fair, transparent, credible, and peaceful elections as the cornerstone of democracy and good governance in the region.
His Majesty urged Malawians to take part in shaping their future through active participation. “I call upon all Malawians who are eligible to vote to do so in large numbers, exercising their democratic right and contributing to the development and prosperity of their country,” he said.
He further appealed to political leaders and their supporters to respect the will of the people and conduct themselves responsibly. “I urge all political leaders and their supporters to respect the will of the people, and to act responsibly through the legal means provided by the laws of Malawi,” he stressed.
Reaffirming SADC’s support, King Mswati III said the SEOM’s mission was to facilitate a peaceful, credible, and inclusive electoral process. “Through the SEOM, SADC’s mission remains to facilitate a peaceful, credible, and inclusive electoral process,” he said.
In his closing remarks, His Majesty extended goodwill from the SADC community, “I join the people of the SADC region in wishing all Malawians a successful and peaceful election. May these elections strengthen Malawi’s democracy, foster national unity, and chart the path for Malawi’s prosperity.”
