President urges prayers ahead of September polls
President Lazarus Chakwera has called upon the country’s faith leaders to dedicate prayers towards peaceful September 16 General Elections.
The President made the remarks at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe yesterday during a closed-door meeting held with the leadership of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) Nkhoma Synod.

Addressing the press after the three-hour meeting, presidential adviser on religious affairs Brian Kamwendo said the President stressed the importance of peaceful elections.
The adviser said elections can be emotive, considering the potential for both victory and loss.
Said Kamwendo: “There is a need for religious groups to pray for calm and harmony throughout the electoral process. At the end of the day, once a winner is announced, people should be able to continue living together as Malawians.
“Usually, emotions tend to run high. The President, being a powerful champion of good governance, has requested the CCAP Nkhoma Synod and other faith leaders to pray during this crucial time for our nation.”
During the meeting, Chakwera also shared his plans for the year with the religious leaders, including continuing being a servant leader, unifying Malawians, and upholding the rule of law.
On his part, moderator of the Synod Reverend Edward Masona Tembo Kaluluma said they sought an audience with Chakwera to pray with him and to hear about his plans for the New Year.
He said the delegation assured Chakwera that the nation is praying for him, for good rains to ensure bumper yields, and for a season free of natural disasters.
Last month, Chakwera also held a similar meeting with the Public Affairs Committee (PAC), a quasi-religious group that urged him to take action against corrupt officials and those who abuse office.
In a statement presented to the President, PAC expressed concerns that Chakwera’s apparent inaction and indecisiveness regarding allegations of corruption involving his officials could erode confidence in high offices.
PAC also recommended that the President consider re-examining his Cabinet and relevant departments to manage fiscal policy more efficiently.
On a positive note, PAC commended Chakwera for the massive infrastructure development taking place in Malawi, citing the roads in Lilongwe as an admirable feat.
Presidential press secretary Anthony Kasunda said the meeting took place in an open and honest atmosphere, reflecting mutual respect and a commitment to the principles of accountability and good governance.