By Charlie Ligomeka           

Machinga, March 18, Mana: Deputy Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture, Joyce Chitsulo has urged traditional leaders in Machinga to promote peace and unity and avoid acts that can ignite violence and divisions as Malawi prepares for general elections in September.

Chitsulo made the call on Monday during installation of Dailesi Allan as Senior Chief Liwonde and Kapinda Dailesi as Traditional Authority Sitola at Machinga Community Council Ground in Liwonde Township.

“Machinga is a hub of various organizations and activities. This can easily tempt chiefs to favor certain families over others.

“As a result, there is higher risk of corruption among chiefs. This should not happen,” the Deputy Minister added.

She also said there was need to promote girls’ education in Machinga, observing that girls tend to perform poorly compared to boys.

“We expect more girls to complete their education. As chiefs, you are key to their future,

“Reject any activities that hinder their education. Promoting girls’ education benefits not only the country but also your communities,” Chitsulo added.

Paramount Chief Kawinga of the Yao, also called on the chiefs to advocate for peace other than tolerating acts that could spark political violence.

He said that chiefs should remain impartial and provide equal opportunities to all political parties to hold political meetings.

“We shouldn’t deny any political party a venue for their campaigns or gatherings, by being open to all parties, we can prevent violence and ensure peaceful elections,” the Paramount Chief added.

He thanked President Lazarus Chakwera for promoting traditional leaders in Machinga.

Council Chairperson for Machinga District, Simplex Diwa, pledged to work closely with the newly installed chiefs, saying collaboration is key to community development.

Dailesi Allan who was once Traditional Authority Sitola moved to Liwonde Headquarters to take up Liwonde chieftaincy.

Allan’s installation as Senior Chief Liwonde is part of a succession system in the Liwonde Clan, which necessitated him to step in after the death of Buluhani Kanyenga who until his death in 2023 was Senior Traditional Authority Liwonde.

Before moving to Liwonde Headquarters Kanyenga also served as Traditional Authority Sitola before Allan came in.