Eleven Presidential candidates representing various Political Parties contesting in the 16 September General Elections in Malawi have signed a peace pledge securing a solemn commitment from all candidates to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process.

The signing took place in Lilongwe on Monday 8th September 2025 at the Bingu International Convention Center at a ceremony organised by the Public Affairs Committee.

Representatives from the United Nations, African Union, and COMESA joined by officials from the Malawi Electoral Commission, the Malawi Peace and Unity Commission, faith and religious leaders, and His Excellency President Lazarus Chakwera all witnessed the signing.

The event, titled “Peace Declaration Our Basis for Inclusive Dialogue and Mediation for Peaceful Political Settlements,” aimed to foster unity, tolerance, and respect for the democratic process through a formal peace pledge.

The United Nations Resident Coordinator Rebecca Adda Dontoh described the peace pledge as a “moral and political act,” emphasizing that it is more than a signed document but a symbol of accountability and trust. 

H.E. Ruhakana Rugunda representing COMESA and the African Union expressed solidarity and unity with the people of Malawi, urging all participants to prioritize national interests above personal ambitions.

He underscored the importance of tolerance, mutual respect, and dialogue and informed them that the joint AU and COMESA would deploy election observers to various regions and districts across the country.