By Tamala Kamanga

Dowa, June 11, Mana: District Commissioner for Dowa Stallichi Mwambiwa has urged aspiring candidates to contest as Councilors and Members of Parliament in the coming September general elections to uphold peace and calmness during the nomination process.

Mwambiwa made the appeal Wednesday during a meeting organized by the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to brief the aspirants on the nomination process, which was held at the council chamber.

"During this period, you are free to come with your supporters for moral support and, where necessary, celebrations, but ensure that neither you nor your supporters engage in any acts of violence.

"If violence arises, the council, in collaboration with the police, will enforce the law without hesitation to ensure the process is free, fair, transparent and successful," he said.

In his remarks, MEC District Elections Officer, Luciano Tiferankhani said MEC organised the meeting to provide aspirants with strategies for easing the registration process and resolving emerging issues.

"We expect this meeting to contribute to minimizing challenges like rejection of nomination papers, which occurs when the required standards on the papers are not met," he said.

One of the independent aspirants for the parliamentary seat in Dowa Mphudzu Constituency, Alisty Litepo Banda, said she was pleased with the meeting as it has enlightened the aspirants to understand the requirements needed to qualify as a candidate in the elections.

She further said that as a leader, she will ensure her followers avoid violence to achieve peace and harmony.

"It is true that leaders set the tone and, if not careful, can create chaos, and followers tend to follow.

"But on my part, I will ensure that in my meetings, I focus on bringing forward ideas that promote development rather than insulting my opponents," she said.