National Initiative for Civ ic Education (Nice) Trust has called on community leaders and other stakeholders to ensure that people with disabilities receive support to participate in the September 16 General Election.
Speaki ng duri ng an awareness meeting on Tuesday at Mbvimbo in Traditional Authority Makwangwala in Ntcheu, the district’s Nice programme officer Yohane Keala cited the importance of supporting inclusive participation in elections.
. | Ayamba Kandodo
He stressed that people with disabilities have numerous rights, including the right to vote, which is enshrined in the Persons with Disabilities Act of 2024 and the Constitution.
“With the General Election coming up on September 16 2025, we must ensure that people with disabilities receive the necessary support to participate and choose leaders who will represent their interests,” said Keala.
He further noted that people with disabilities face unique challenges, which can better be addressed when they have a say in electing leaders who understand and prioritise their needs.
Keala also called on the Malawi Electoral Commission to create an accessible voting environment and provide disability-friendly materials at polling stations.
Senior Chief Makwangwala commended Nice Trust for the awareness campaign, noting that it had sparked interest in elections among his subjects.
“Many people disregard elections, yet elections help us choose the leaders we want. This awareness has made my subjects understand the importance of participating in elections,” he said.
On her part, Febie Ishmael, a community member from Fulatira Village, said the meeting motivated her to vote on September 16.
“I was frustrated with our leaders for failing to fulfil their promises so I decided not to vote. However, after attending this session, I have changed my mind,” she said.
Nice Trust held the meeting with funding from the European Union under Boma Lathu Project.
