Political parties and electoral stakeholders have been urged to address electoral challenges through transparency, inclusivity and accountability to strengthen democratic governance and maintain peaceful elections.
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative to Malawi, Fenella Frost, said this during a National Stakeholders Political Parties Conference in Lilongwe on Thursday.
Frost said Malawi has a strong legal framework for regulating political parties, but its provisions must translate into practical and transparent action.
She emphasised that collective action by political parties and national institutions is essential in tackling political handouts, opaque campaign financing, disputed primaries and limited participation of women, youth and persons with disabilities.
Meanwhile, Registrar of Political Parties Dr Kizito Tenthani stressed the need for political parties to comply with the Political Parties Act.
Dr Tenthani warned that violations will attract appropriate action where legal requirements are not met.
The conference was aimed to reflect on electoral challenges following the 2025 elections and identify practical reforms to strengthen political party regulation, transparency, inclusion and democratic governance.
By Yamikani Makanga
