UN Solidarity Statement on the occasion of the Signing of the Peace Pledge by Malawi Presidential Candidates for the 16 September 2025 General Elections.

It is with deep humility and unwavering respect that I stand before you today, on behalf of the United Nations, to witness a moment that will echo through the heart of Malawi for generations to come.

Today, we celebrate not just a signature on paper—but a solemn promise. A promise of peace. A pledge of unity. A declaration that Malawi’s future will be shaped not by division, but by dialogue; not by conflict, but by compassion.

To each presidential candidate who has signed this Peace Pledge: we offer our heartfelt congratulations and solidarity. You have chosen the path of wisdom, the path of restraint, the path of nationhood. As the Malawian proverb reminds us, “Akulu akulu ndi m’dambo, mozimira moto”—meaning, Elders are the wetlands where wildfires stop. Today, you have become those wetlands. You have chosen to cool the embers of discord before they ignite, reminding us all that Malawi is greater than any one candidate, any one party.

This act is more than political—it is profoundly moral. It is a rope of accountability, a bond of trust, and a sacred promise to the people of Malawi and to the world: that peace will triumph over power. As Jimi Hendrix once said, “When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.” Today, Malawi shows the world what that power of love looks like—love of country above party, love of neighbor above rivalry.

But this pledge is not the end—it is the beginning.

To the men and women of Malawi: Your vote is your voice. Cast it with pride, with hope, and with the confidence that your leaders have committed to peace.. Reject violence. Reject hate. Embrace the unity that has always defined this beautiful nation.  

To the media: You are the stewards of truth. Uphold the highest standards of journalism. Report with sensitivity, with accuracy, and with integrity. Your words can build bridges—or burn them. Report wisely.

To all political leaders and supporters: Your tone sets the rhythm of the nation. Uphold tolerance. Let your campaigns be respectful. Let your celebrations be humble. Let your words be seeds of peace.

And to all Malawians: Know this—the United Nations stands with you. Before, during, and after the elections. We are here to support your journey toward a peaceful, credible, and inclusive democratic process. We will walk with you, work with you, and stand by you in your quest for developmental aspirations.

May this Peace Pledge ring out from every village to every city. May it remind us that true leadership is not found in conquest, but in compassion. Not in dominance, but in dialogue. And may the spirit of Malawi rise—strong, united, and unwavering—in the quiet strength of togetherness.

Thankyou.