The Public Affairs Committee (PAC), a quasi-religious body, says it will engage the leadership of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in an effort to curb rising political violence ahead of the September 16 general elections.

PAC spokesperson Bishop Gilford Matonga asserts that the two parties are heavily linked to the unrest and that their leaders—President Lazarus Chakwera of the MCP and former President Peter Mutharika of the DPP—must take responsibility for ensuring peaceful polls.  

“The MCP and DPP are central to these clashes, and their leaders must commit to ending the violence,” Bishop Matonga said. “President Chakwera and former President Mutharika have a duty to ensure their supporters act responsibly.”

MCP deputy publicity secretary Ken Nsonda denied his party’s role in the violence, instead accusing the DPP of instigating unrest. 

“We are not involved in any violence—these are false allegations meant to tarnish our reputation,” Nsonda said. “In fact PAC needs to invite the party which is at the centre of these violent incidents which is DPP. Of course we will attend.”

In response, DPP spokesperson Shadreck Namalomba refuted the claims, calling on PAC to ensure President Chakwera attends the meetings. 

“The DPP upholds nonviolence. If PAC is serious about peace, they must hold all parties accountable, including the MCP,” Namalomba said.  

Governance analyst Victor Chikoti endorsed PAC’s initiative, describing the meeting as a critical step toward stability. 

“Dialogue is essential, but words must translate into action. Leaders must publicly condemn violence and enforce consequences, Chikoti said.

The planned meeting follows a similar PAC-led multi-stakeholder dialogue held just a month prior, underscoring the persistent failure of commitments to curb violence.