Uniting for Peace Ahead of Elections

Youth, police, political party representatives, and community members walk and talk their way to a shared vision for a violence-free vote

August 10, 2025

A group of people marching on a road, holding blue banners and signs. — Mulanje, Malawi – Police officers, youth, and political party representatives march together and displaying messages condemning political violence and calling for tolerance ahead of Malawi’s elections.

On Friday, 8 August 2025, the streets of Nsanje were filled with the sounds of marching footsteps and songs of peace. The next day, Mulanje resonated with the same spirit. In both towns, hundreds of people—youth groups, police officers, political party representatives, and community members—marched through the streets carrying placards and banners with messages condemning political violence and calling for tolerance ahead of Malawi’s elections.

Crowd of people marching with banners along a road, advocating for a cause. — Nsanje, Malawi – Police officers, youth, and political party representatives march together and displaying messages condemning political violence and calling for tolerance ahead of Malawi’s elections.

These gatherings formed part of a police and youth initiative to organise symposiums and games aimed at preventing electoral violence. This effort was supported by the United Nations, through funding from the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, and UNDP's technical assistance. Targeting hotspot areas with histories of unrest, the programme creates safe spaces where young people and law enforcement engage constructively, building trust while working to prevent electoral violence..

The three-kilometre marches culminated at local football grounds, where music greeted the crowd and the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. These marches were more than simple processions; these gatherings sent a clear message: Malawians are united in rejecting violence and choosing peace.

A group of men in formal attire holding hands under a tent, showing unity. — Nsanje, Malawi – Police officers and traditional chiefs join hands in a show of unity ahead of the September 2025 elections.

Messages of Peace and Unity

The gatherings brought together traditional leaders, government officials, police representatives, youth organisations, and civil society groups.

In Mulanje, Senior Chief Mthiramanga reminded the crowd that differences in religion, tribe, or political allegiance should never make people enemies.

“We are one people, and there will never be another Malawi. Let us reject all forms of violence during the campaign period,” he said.

The Chief also observed that the presence of several political parties at the event was a testament to what is achievable when respect is maintained. “It is also important that several political parties are represented here today. This sends a strong message of unity.

In Nsanje, Deputy Commissioner of Police Stain Chaima addressed the youth directly, urging them to take responsibility for peace in their communities.

“You are not just the leaders of tomorrow. You are the leaders of today,” he said, urging them to be “ambassadors of truth” in a time when misinformation can spread with a single click.

Representing the Independent Complaints Commission (ICC), Director of Legal Services Nicely Msowoya explained the Commission’s mandate to promote fairness, transparency, and accountability in policing:

“Whether on the pitch, within your communities, or at the ballot box—choose peace. Stand for the truth. Reject violence.”

A group photo of a soccer team with medals, surrounded by officials in uniform under a clear sky. — Nsanje, Malawi – In a football match for peace, everyone is a winner. Police Officers, Chiefs, the District Commissioner for Nsanje and one of the participating teams pose with medals and a trophy after the game.

Culture, Connection, and Lasting Impact

The formal speeches were blended with vibrant display of joy and cultural pride. Traditional dance troupes spun and stamped in vibrant costumes. Comedians entertained the audience with humour that conveyed underlying messages about unity and tolerance. The Malawi Police Brass Band played live music, drawing people from the sidelines to join the celebration.

These cultural performances were more than mere entertainment. They served as a bridge, and inspired and reminding participants that diversity is Malawi’s strength.

While the events involved friendly football matches, the games themselves were secondary to the broader message. The competition on the pitch acted as a metaphor for civic life: discipline, teamwork, and respect for the rules are what lead to victory. Awards recognised not only skill but sportsmanship, emphasising that respect and fair play matter as much as the results.

As Malawi approaches its elections, the marches in Nsanje and Mulanje show that communities can turn dialogue, culture, and collaboration into powerful tools for peace. By standing together—across generations, institutions, and political lines—Malawians are demonstrating that unity is the strongest safeguard against violence.