Malawi’s Catholic Bishops Urge Electorate to Seek Integrity in Candidates Ahead of Elections

Malawi’s Catholic Bishops call for the electorate to seek leaders with integrity, courage, and selflessness ahead of the 2025 elections. They stress the importance of voters prioritizing merit over tribal or religious affiliations and highlight the need for accountable, God-fearing candidates. Emphasizing the significance of effective leadership, the Bishops outline qualities essential for the next president, urging a focus on the welfare of the populace.

In light of the upcoming 2025 general elections in Malawi, the Catholic Bishops, represented by the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB), are urging voters to seek leaders who demonstrate integrity, courage, and selflessness, resonating with the Church’s Jubilee Year theme. Released on March 9 and aired by Luntha Television, their statement emphasizes that the choice of political leaders remains in the hands of the electorate at the ballot box.

The MCCB underscores that if citizens select candidates primarily based on tribal or religious affiliations rather than their qualifications, they may end up with ineffective leaders. They advocate for a rigorous evaluation of candidates’ abilities to enact meaningful change, particularly in a developing nation like Malawi. Attributes such as discipline, trustworthiness, courage, humaneness, and intelligence are highlighted as essential for potential leaders.

Furthermore, the Bishops stress the importance of electing God-fearing candidates, cautioning against those who may outwardly profess their faith while engaging in corrupt practices once in office. The MCCB affirms the necessity of having accountable politicians devoid of corruption in leadership positions.

They also recognize the importance of preserving cultural and religious values amidst external pressures, taking pride that past presidents have resisted compromising these values for foreign aid. As the nation prepares for elections, the Bishops outline the qualities required in the President, advocating for strong decision-making and a commitment to prioritize citizens’ welfare over political self-interest.

In their call to action, the MCCB insists that Malawians should choose a presidential candidate willing to prioritize the people’s well-being rather than focusing on personal political gain or maintaining the status quo of fellow politicians.

In summary, the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops emphasizes the role of the electorate in selecting capable leaders ahead of the 2025 elections. By prioritizing virtues such as integrity and selflessness, citizens can foster a political environment conducive to positive change and accountability. The Bishops highlight the importance of conducting thorough evaluations of candidates, urging voters to resist corruption and uphold their cultural values.

Original Source: www.aciafrica.org