Senior Chief Timbiri of Nkhata Bay has appealed to aspiring candidates in the September 16 General Election to desist from hate speech during the campaign period.
Speaking on Wednesday during a meeting with aspiring members of Parliament (MP) and councillors in the district, he observed that hate speech during campaign creates fertile ground for political violence.
“What we need is tangible development initiatives you intend to do for the people in the area. Development is not about hate speech. If you feel you will be promoting hate speech, then you better stop and let those with real issues to take over,” said Timbiri.
He also advised the aspiring candidates to follow proper procedures when scheduling venues over conducting meetings to ensure that there are no clashes for venues.
In his remarks, Mpamba Constituency People’s Party shadow MP Sylvester Kasambara commended the chief for the initiative to meet the aspiring candidates.
He pledged to conduct an issue-based campaign and refrain from hate speech which he said fuels political violence.
“Hate speech also degrades someone’s morality and integrity and I will ensure that I tell my followers that what comes from the mouth must be of benefit not only to the constituency but also to the nation,” said Kasambara.
Mwambazi Ward shadow councillor Stuwart Mwale (Malawi Congress Party) thanked the chief for the meeting, saying such forums were good for free, fair and credible elections.
Malawi Electoral Commission launched the official campaign on July 14 this year and it will close on September 14.
