By Burnett Munthali
The Embassy of Ireland has asked stakeholders in Mangochi to resolve the differences that are preventing the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) from holding the by-election at Mwasa Ward in Mangochi North East Constituency.
The Embassy’s governance advisor, Manuel Malamba said this in Mangochi during a visit to the area to appreciate the interventions of the Peace Project they are funding called ‘Inter-religious Dialogue’ which is being implemented by Centre for Social Concern (CfSC) in the district.
CfSC is implementing the project to promote peaceful co-existence among Muslims and Christians through the involvement of faith leaders, youths and chiefs, among others.
Speaking after interacting with interfaith committee members, Malamba said it is not fair that the by-election has been cancelled twice yet it is important in terms of the area’s development.
“The embassy believes in a free and democratic society where election is free and fair to ensure development. Therefore, would you please meet all the people who matter in this election and let it happen,” said.
Mangochi District Council director of administration, Bisai Mtayamanja thanked the embassy of Ireland and CfSC for implementing the project in the district saying it has contributed to peaceful communities across the district.
In the most serious note, one of God’s name and attribute is al-salam(The Most Peaceful), which means, peaceful co-existence and harmonious living are very important values that Islam urge Muslims to enjoy particularly with people of other faiths and religions, such as Christianity and others.
In February 2024, A high-level dialogue meeting was planned to ensure co-existence between Muslims and Christians in Mangochi district.
The meeting involved the Evangelical Association of Malawi (EAM), traditional leaders and the police following violent scenes at Nselema that week.
An angry mob assaulted a Living Waters Church pastor, destroyed his property and torched the church as well as undressing women.
The EAM, Muslim Association of Malawi (MAM) and the Quadria Association have been on a fact-finding mission in the area.
EAM general secretary Francis Mkandawire stressed the need for both the Muslims and Christians to live together in peace.
 from holding the by-election at Mwasa…){kind=link}