The Public Affairs Committee (PAC) and Malawi Peace and Unity Commission have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on fostering conflict prevention, management which seek to operationalize with persons or institutions that pursue peace and unity in Malawi.
Speaking during the official signing ceremony of the MOU held at Crossroads hotel in Lilongwe, PAC Chairperson, Monsignor Dr. Patrick Thawale said the partnership with MPUC is important which calls for the need to build concerted efforts as we approach the 2025 general elections where political violence may arise. He added that PAC has experience in conflict prevention and resolution gained through dialogue and mediation facilitation among other things,and “further stated that”this will help both parties discharge their mandate and achieve their articulated goals.
In his remarks, Monsignor Dr Thawale added that PAC is aware that MPUC is the umbrella body and focal point for promoting unity, peace building and conflict management and resolution hence the need for this partnership to avoid duplication in the implementation of peace building activities in Malawi.
Concurring with Dr. Thawale, chairperson of MPUC, Impi Bishop Mary Nkosi said the signing of the MOU is the affirmation of shared commitment to peace, unity and dialogue in Malawi and a recognition that no single institution can claim sole responsibility for building and sustaining peace, but it is a collaborative partnership to shape collective future.
Bishop Nkosi continued by highlighting that MPU’s activities are fostering peace, promoting national cohesion , developing effective mechanisms for conflict prevention, management and resolution. She further stated that her organization recognizes that their work requires institutional support from both parties and uses available resources for a mutual purpose to avoid duplication
She concluded by appealing to political party leaders and their supporters to avoid any acts that perpetrate violence including hate speech but rather respect each other for a better and successful Malawi.
