EU envoy challenges ‘varsity students on elections

European Union (EU) Ambassador Rune Skinnebach has challenged students in the country’s institutions of higher learning to take a proactive role in elections.

Speaking at his residence in Area 10, Lilongwe, on Thursday when he hosted over 30 Catholic University of Malawi (Cunima) political science students and lecturers, the EU envoy said university youths need to advocate for meaningful inclusion of youth voices in decision-making.

“It is not just about harnessing the use of social media to discourage issues such as hate speech and tribalism, but rather to focus on policy-based dialogue and holding leaders to account.

“Ahead of 2025 [General Election], it is about registering to vote and casting your vote for those visionary change-makers who can transform Malawi,” said Skinnebach.

He advised the students not to wait for the elections to hold the leaders accountable on matters affecting the country.

“Discontent with the state of affairs, Malawians often say, Tizawonetsana 2025 [We shall see in 2025]. Always, my question is: Is 2025 the only time Malawians can influence decision-making and their development? What happens during the entire five years between the ballots?” wondered Skinnebach.

Agreeing with the EU envoy, Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) commissioner Olivia Mchaju Liwewe said university students are the vanguards of change and progress in our society; hence, called for their participation in the forthcoming general election.

“Your voices carry weight, and your actions have the power to shape the future of our nation. Therefore, I urge you to be actively involved in the electoral process, from voter registration, which will commence in September this year, to casting your ballots on election day [on September 16, 2025],” said Liwewe.

She added that MEC has made significant reforms that will foster the smooth conduct of the elections in 2025.

Cunima Political Science Association president James Lihoma said most youths in the country have shunned the political space for being hoodwinked by leaders who seek them as bridges to get political seats.

“Honestly, youths are now playing it smart; they now realise that politicians dump them after using them to get into power,” said Lihoma.