Youths in Balaka District have called on political parties to conduct issue-based campaignto offer young people hope for a better future.
The youth have also urged parties to refrain from propaganda-driven campaign and the use of hate speech.
hardships . | Andrew Phiri, Mana
They made the call in Balaka on Tuesday following Malawi Electoral Commission’s (MEC) launch of the 60-day campaign on July 14 in Lilongwe.
Phalula Youth Network chairperson Alfred Katopola said the country’s population is largely made of young people; hence, the need to give them more job and business opportunities.
“We are facing various hardships because we are not given enough opportunities to showcase our capabilities in business and at the work places,” he said, urging all aspiring members of Parliament and ward councillors in the district to deliver manifestos that provide solutions to challenges.
Aspiring ward councillor for Kangamkunde Ward under Mulunguzi Constituency, Michael Chauluka, said young people in Balaka have the right to demand quality development from government through elected political leaders.
“Youths face various challenges, ranging from unemployment to limited business opportunities. Let me encourage the youth to utilise this opportunity to elect leaders that are visionary,” he said.
National Initiative for Civic Education Trust Balaka civic education facilitator Bowlander Monjeza said they are already on the ground working with all electoral stakeholders, including the youth, chiefs, police and aspiring political leaders to ensure a smooth electoral process.
