A coalition of youth representatives in Lilongwe has on Friday 15 August submitted a bold position paper to the Lilongwe City Council, calling on authorities to take decisive steps to end youth exploitation and foster meaningful youth engagement in politics ahead of next month’s national elections.

Spearheaded by the National Youth Forum for National Transformation (YOFONAT), the youth are demanding an immediate end to the use of young people in political violence, the elimination of political tokenism, and the creation of safe and inclusive political spaces.

The petition was delivered following a peaceful solidarity march through the streets of Lilongwe, drawing attention from onlookers and civic leaders alike. The procession culminated at the Lilongwe Civic Offices where the position paper was officially presented.

YOFONAT Executive Director Chifundo Robert called on the Council to publicly endorse the position paper, stating, “Such endorsement would affirm Malawi's commitment to democracy, dignity, and meaningful youth participation.”

The petition has been jointly received by Malawi Peace and Unity Commission Chairperson, Bishop Mary Nkosi, and Lilongwe City Council Executive Director, Mcloud Kadammanja—both of whom commended the youth for their proactive stance in promoting peace.

“These young people are setting an example for the entire nation. We must listen to them,” said Bishop Nkosi. “Their call for peace and inclusion reflects the values that should guide our democracy.”

Kadammanja also praised the march and petition as a sign of democratic maturity among youth.

“This is exactly the kind of civic engagement we encourage. Your voices are not only valid—they are vital,” he said. “We will seriously consider these demands as part of our commitment to inclusive governance.”

Among the key demands is the implementation of a 30% quota for youth representation in key government and decision-making positions. The group also is urging authorities to ban electoral handouts and enforce laws against the practice, which they say undermines democratic integrity.

Echoing this, Peter Mapondo of Khama Youth Club stressed the need for a paradigm shift in youth involvement: “Young people must no longer be used as agents of violence—we must become agents of positive change.”

The event was supported by Action Aid Malawi, whose Youth Coordinator Chikondi Lungu described the petition as “a unified youth call for credible and peaceful elections.”

“This is not just a political statement,” said Lungu. “It’s a demand for justice, equity, and a future where young people have a real seat at the table.”

Young people make up over 60% of Malawi’s population—a demographic with growing political awareness and influence.