By Agatha Kadzinje

Blantyre, October 12, Mana: Malawi Peace and Unity Commission (MPUC) on Friday, called for a stakeholders’ engagement meeting at Blantyre City Council, Civic Offices to explain its new initiative of introducing peace and unity committees in Blantyre City to act as mediators when disputes arise.

During the meeting, MPUC Commissioner, Zack Kawalala said the committee will play a crucial role in promoting peace and preventing hatred and discord within cities and other local authorities.

“The committee will help to settle disputes that emerge within the city and enhance information among stakeholders” he said.

Kawalala explained that the committee will not take over roles and responsibilities of Ministry of Justice but collaborate with the ministry to ensure peace and order in the country.

He emphasized the importance of speedy formulation of the committee considering increased violence that often arise during election time.

MPUC Coordinator, Dyton Kang’oma said the committee will focus on changing mindset by departing from traditional conflict resolution methods.

“This committee will act as a mediator and advocate for the Peace and Unity Act of 2022," he said, adding committee members shall be independent, non-partisan, and impartial in their duties.

He said the selection process will consider gender balance and a good representation of age groups.

Kang’oma said the committee will work for four years and will be appointed by the State President, adding the Public Appointment Committee of Parliament will also be involved.

“The committee will consist of 11 members, including two ex-officio members from faith-based organisations, two traditional leaders, two representatives from civil society organizations (CSOs), one member from the business community, one person with disabilities (PWD), one youth representative, City Council’s Chief Executive Officer or District Commissioner, and the Officer-in-Charge of Police as ex-officio members," he said.

He added that the committee will be funded by the Malawi Government and Malawi Peace and Unity Commission.

In an interview with Malawi News Agency (Mana), faith based representative, Davie Mapemba Phiri said MPUC will help to promote peace among Blantyre City residence as the country heads to election period and will also be instrumental during post-election period.

He said he believed the initiative will be a success as it will involve various stakeholders that are already engaged with their communities.

“The commission has taken faith leaders on board because we are closely connected to the community and witness many cases of violence. We are in a better position than the commission or government to address these issues," Phiri said.

Malawi Peace and Unity Commission was established under Peace and Unity Act, 2022 with the goal of achieving political prosperity and sustainable socio-economic development.