The Institute for Policy Interaction (IPI) has emphasized the need for institutional collaboration to curb political violence ahead of the September general elections.

Speaking in Lilongwe on Thursday during a high-level dialogue with electoral stakeholders, IPI team leader Dr. Augustine Magolowondo noted that with the campaign period underway and tensions running high, “unaddressed conflicts could lead to a chaotic election.”

Addressing delegates to the High-Level Dialogue on Peaceful Elections, Dr Magolowondo called for “stronger cooperation among institutions to prevent political violence.”

The expert in governance and elections, among others, expressed concern over “the role of young people as perpetrators of violence rather than agents of progress.”

Adding to the discussion, Political Science Association of Malawi president Dr Henry Chingaipe stated that “political parties must bear some responsibility for the violence for often mobilizing their youth wings to engage in such acts.”

Echoing similar concerns, Chingaipe placed partial blame on political parties themselves, citing their history of “deploying youth wings to incite unrest.”

He stressed that “influential leaders must take a firm and consistent stance against violence.”

Malawi Police Service Commissioner Barbra Tsiga Mchenga emphasized the need for “public education on the dangers of electoral violence.”

The meeting united local leaders, faith groups, security agencies, academics, and political analysts under a shared goal: “Promoting Peaceful Elections Through Institutional Collaboration.”