Deputy Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Joyce Chitsulo has called upon traditional leaders to prioritize peace and harmony as pillars of socioeconomic transformation ahead of nail-biting September polls.
She was speaking on Thursday, March 13, 2025 during the elevation and installation of four traditional leaders in Ntchisi district.
In her remarks, the Deputy Minister said traditional leaders, citizens and politicians must work together and prioritize solidarity, unity and peace as fundamental pillars of peaceful election while letting development projects to take shape.
"As a God- fearing nation, we must refrain from any action, including violence, hate speech and incitement to violence, that could threaten human lives and undermine our democracy and national stability which are bedrock to development.
"I, therefore, urge our traditional leaders other stakeholders and party supporters to learn to resolve differences peacefully, including through dialogue and appropriate institutional mechanisms, in accordance with the laws," urged Chitsulo who is also Member of Parliament for Mwanza West constituency.
Chitsulo also announced that government under President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has included 20,000 traditional leaders on the honoraria payroll for the first time while urging voters to vote for Dr Lazarus Chakwera in forth coming election.
Chitsulo said: "On behalf of President Dr Lazarus Chakwera, I would like to thank you (traditional leaders) for helping government in promoting civil justice, development, unity and coexistence among Malawians."
The following traditional leaders where installed: Sub- Traditional Authority Sambakusi and Traditional Authority M'ndinda while Traditional Authority Lombwa and Mikwala have been elevated to Sub- Traditional Authorities.