Clergy lauded for diffusing Thyolo North tensions
The National Initiative for Civic Education (Nice) Trust says faith leaders have played a pivotal role in preventing political violence as Malawi gears for the Tripartite Elections on May 20 this year.
Nice regional civic education officer (South), Chris Naphiyo, made the remarks in an interview on Saturday after touring Mulanje and Thyolo to appreciate successes and challenges being encountered in the implementation of civic and voter education programmes.
Naphiyo observed that the role faith leaders play during campaign contribute to the reduction of political violence in the country.
“For instance, police recently designated Thyolo North Constituency a violence-prone area following a series of clashes between members of the ruling People’s Party [PP] and the opposition [Democratic Progressive Party] DPP. But we’re glad to report today that with assistance from our organisation, the clergy successfully diffused the aggression to the extent that it’s now one of the most peaceful constituencies,” he said.
Naphiyo pledged that Nice will continue providing support to churches in their efforts to resolve differences that emerge among contenders or supporters of various political parties during the electoral period.
