Karonga Police Station officer-in-charge Kelvin Mulezo has asked civil society organisations (CSOs) to advocate for peace and protect the rights of vulnerable persons ahead of the September 16 General Election.
He said this on Saturday during a meeting with Karonga District CSO Network members to plan for the elections.
Said Mulezo: “Police regard CSOs as a democratic partner in the run up to elections to ensure fair, credible and violence-free elections. We are ready to provide impartial maximum security to all political parties and stakeholders.
“Therefore, we decided to court key partners such as CSOs to ensure that together we foster peace and defuse tension because we know that CSOs advocate for peace, law and order.”
He also said his office expects constructive criticism from the CSOs to have an effective and efficient police service in the district.
“Above all, CSOs must prioritise conflict resolution if we are to have peaceful elections,” said Mulezo.
While thanking the police for the meeting, Karonga District CSO-Network chairperson Edgar Phiri said there is need to hold meetings with other stakeholders.
He said: “We commend your office for initiating this meeting and embracing the community policing approach. However, there is need to have meetings with the chiefs’ council led by Paramount Chief Kyungu.
“The meeting should also target aspiring candidates and political party leaders who will sign a memorandum of understanding to curb violence.”
Karonga is listed among the hotspots of political violence where the police need to put extra effort
