Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR) has launched an initiative dubbed Rise for Peace to address political violence ahead of the 2025 General Election in Salima District.
CHRR project officer Maxwell Mvula announced the initiative on Monday during a District Executive Committee meeting.
He described it as a strategic response to the risk of electoral violence.
“The goal is to mobilise the youth to work against political violence ahead of the general election. We want to equip both peer educators and party-wing leaders with skills on peace-building, conflict resolution and conflict management,” said Mvula.
hotspot. | Wanangwa Tembo
He although CHRR had initially hoped to implement the project in all constituencies in the district, resource limitations have confined its scope to Salima Central.
Mvula said the choice of Salima Central was because it is a political hotspot.
“We already have the structures, personnel and community networks in Salima Central, which makes it feasible to run the project there,” he said.
Salima district elections officer Alinafe Chisenga commended the initiative, saying violence derails electoral processes.
“We appreciate every initiative channelled
towards raising awareness against violence during elections. What we hope for is a credible electoral process,” she said.
In an interview, a resident Geoffrey Liwonde welcomed the project, saying it came at the right time when parties have started conducting rallies.
“Despite not being official campaign period, political parties have already hit the ground. We, therefore, do not want to see political violence during such rallies,” he said.
CHRR is implementing the K121.3 million project in Salima, Karonga and Mangochi districts.
