NICE Trust has called on Balaka district voters to actively participate in the upcoming General Elections on September 16. Program manager Henry Zekeria stressed the need for citizens to vote for leaders who genuinely care about community issues. Local leaders like Group Village Head Lemu support efforts to encourage responsible voting, as the Malawi Electoral Commission finalizes voter registration in the district.
The National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Trust has encouraged voters in Balaka district to engage in the electoral process and select their preferred leaders during the upcoming General Elections scheduled for September 16. Henry Zekeria, the program manager for Balaka, emphasized the importance of voting for candidates who genuinely care for the community’s well-being.
Zekeria highlighted that participating in elections is a constitutional right that all Malawians should exercise, underscoring that responsible citizenship includes casting informed votes. He cautioned voters to focus on leaders with campaign messages centered on real issues rather than practical gifts.
“The Political Party Act prohibits politicians from dishing hand-outs in exchange for votes. If they give you something, receive it. But remember to vote for leaders who have solutions to various challenges you are facing as a community,” declared Zekeria.
The Group Village Head Lemu expressed gratitude towards NICE Trust for their advocacy efforts. He has pledged to disseminate the message of voter participation to ensure that eligible voters actively engage in the upcoming elections, thus facilitating the election of leaders who can address community challenges.
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) recently conducted a voter transfer exercise in Balaka district from February 25-27, 2025, registering approximately 169,829 voters. NICE Trust is executing the “Boma Lathu” Programme funded by the European Union, aimed at enhancing accountability among duty bearers and ensuring that authorities respond to community concerns effectively.
In summary, NICE Trust is proactively fostering voter engagement in Balaka district ahead of the September 16 General Elections. The initiative encourages citizens to vote thoughtfully, prioritizing issue-based candidates. With the support of local leaders and the completion of voter registration efforts by the MEC, the stage is set for a more democratic electoral process.
Original Source: malawi24.com