Ban urges candidates, parties to ensure peaceful, inclusive elections in Malawi

Ahead of simultaneous presidential, parliamentary and local government elections in Malawi, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has urged all candidates political parties, and State institutions to ensure that the polls are peaceful and inclusive.

“The Secretary-General takes note of Malawi's first tripartite elections, to be held on 20 May 2014,” said a statement issued late yesterday by Mr. Ban's spokesperson in New York, which added an appeal to the candidates, parties and State institutions to adhere to the Lilongwe Peace Declaration of 10 May to ensure that the elections are free from violence.

“The Secretary-General is convinced that a successful process of presidential, parliamentary, and local council elections will be instrumental for the consolidation of democracy in Malawi,” the statement continued, adding that the UN chief commends the work of the Malawi Electoral Commission and all national actors, as well as international partners, for their support to the electoral process.