Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lilongwe (Fides Service)- “As Malawians, we have an obligation to behave in a mature fashion to show the world that we are serious about consolidating our democracy. Let us conduct ourselves in a peaceful manner and reject violence.” This is part of a Message from Public Affairs Committee (PAC) to Affiliate Members on the 2004 Presidential And Parliamentary Elections on May 18. PAC is primarily a grouping of Christian leaders. A copy of the message was sent to Fides. “Malawi is faced with serious problems such as rampant poverty, which is evident in issues like food insecurity, lack of access to clean water, inadequate health services, unemployment, corruption and theft by people in public positions, declining education standards, suppression of women’s rights and many other issues. Above and beyond this, Malawi faced the problem of organised violence towards clergy and citizens who held contrary views to the third term constitutional amendment.”.
Outgoing President Bakili Muluzi attempted to change the constitution so he could stand for another term and this gave rise to tension in the country.
The PAC calls on Malawians “to make an effort to know the names of contestants in Parliamentary as well as Presidential polls, and their symbols. This will help you to vote properly and in an informed manner. We are asking Malawians to vote with wisdom. The ordinary meaning of the word “wisdom” is the ability to make good judgement based on knowledge and experience. We therefore ask all registered voters to reflect on their experience as citizens over the past five years, and consider the knowledge gathered” The PAC warns against false electoral promises: “Beware of promises from leaders and political parties. Some promises are false. Leaders who make such promises are like clouds that do not bring rain. Malawians, let us vote in the knowledge that we are not going to vote again for another five years”.
“We urge all registered voters to turn up in large numbers on 18 May 2004. This is the only way to ensure that leaders who will be elected truly represent the wishes of the majority of Malawians. This is a huge responsibility that cannot be left to only a few people, the members of the Public Affairs Committee urge the people. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 10/5/2004, righe36 parole 392)
