Parliamentarians Urged to Stay Committed to Development Amidst Influx of Aspirants for 2025 Election
The warning underscores concerns that such distractions might divert their attention away from vital developmental pursuits, potentially at the expense of the Malawian populace.
SALIMA, Malawi— With the 2025 tripartite election on the horizon, a prominent social commentator has offered counsel to incumbent parliamentarians, advising them not to be unduly alarmed by the growing number of aspirants in their respective constituencies, writes Alinafe Mkwezalamba.
The warning underscores concerns that such distractions might divert their attention away from vital developmental pursuits, potentially at the expense of the Malawian populace.
Salima-based social commentator Joseph Kandiyesa issued this advisory, stressing the paramount importance of political representatives maintaining their popularity.
Nonetheless, Kandiyesa emphasised the need for a delicate balance, cautioning against an excessive focus on electoral triumph that could eclipse their vital developmental duties, thereby disadvantaging vulnerable Malawians.
"It is essential for parliamentarians to preserve their popularity, but they must not become so singularly engrossed in electoral success that they lose sight of their development agenda," Kandiyesa asserted.
"The citizens of Malawi must witness their elected officials diligently labouring to ameliorate their livelihoods. If parliamentarians are overly preoccupied with campaign activities, their capacity to fulfil this mandate may be compromised."
Kandiyesa welcomed the surge of aspirants in the upcoming 2025 election, seeing it as an opportunity for the Malawian people to have a broader array of choices.
Nevertheless, he sounded a note of caution, emphasising the necessity for parliamentarians not to succumb to panic due to increased competition. Instead, they should remain resolute in delivering on their commitments to their constituents.
"The Malawian public is weary of empty assurances," Kandiyesa observed.
"They yearn for tangible transformation and look to their elected representatives to facilitate such change. Parliamentarians earnest in their representation should unwaveringly adhere to their development agenda, resisting the distractions brought about by the competitive electoral landscape."
In a contrasting perspective, Salim North West Parliamentarian Enock Phale expressed unwavering confidence in his ability to stay the course.
He adamantly dismissed any concerns about rival aspirants, firmly stating that his primary mission is to advance the welfare of his constituency.
For him, the presence of individuals lacking a legal mandate for development does not warrant his concern.
"I harbour no apprehensions regarding the aspirants," Phale asserted.
"My undivided focus remains on enhancing the development of my constituency, and I am resolute in my conviction to achieve this. My track record speaks for itself, and I will not be swayed from my duties by the presence of aspirants."
Phale underscored his commitment to collaborate closely with the people of Salim North West to uplift their quality of life.
He revealed a pipeline of development initiatives, including the construction of new educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and infrastructure improvements, building on the substantial progress already achieved within his jurisdiction.
As Malawi prepares for the polls slated for October 2025, where the nation will elect its president, parliamentarians, and ward councillors, the call for parliamentarians to maintain their focus on the developmental welfare of their constituents amid heightened competition reverberates as a vital reminder of their responsibilities.