Ahead of the 2025 elections in Malawi, Catholic Bishops urge voters to seek candidates with integrity, courage, and selflessness. They highlight the impact of citizens’ choices and stress the importance of merit in political leadership. Furthermore, they caution against electing leaders based on tribal ties and advocate for selecting God-fearing individuals who demonstrate accountability and a commitment to societal welfare.
As Malawi approaches the 2025 general elections, Catholic Bishops are urging voters to prioritize specific virtues in political candidates that reflect the teachings of the Church in the context of the Jubilee Year. According to a recent statement by the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops (MCCB), these virtues include integrity, courage, and selflessness, emphasizing the significant influence of citizens’ electoral choices on the quality of leadership in the nation.
The MCCB asserts that merely voting based on tribal or religious affiliations may lead citizens to elect leaders lacking genuine qualifications and accomplishments. They encourage voters to assess candidates based on merit, particularly in a financially challenged country like Malawi, where selecting leaders capable of contributing positively to society is crucial.
The bishops outline essential virtues that should guide voter choice, including discipline, trustworthiness, humaneness, and intelligence. Furthermore, they stress the importance of electing God-fearing individuals, cautioning against leaders who outwardly profess faith but engage in corrupt practices once elected.
MCCB highlights the necessity of choosing accountable politicians without corruption records while expressing gratitude that previous presidents have not compromised on Malawi’s religious and cultural values for international assistance. The bishops reiterate the need for a President capable of confronting the nation’s significant challenges decisively.
In preparing for this election, the MCCB outlines that the ideal presidential candidate must be brave enough to speak the truth and prioritize the well-being of the populace over personal or political interests. They urge voters to choose a leader committed to serving the people’s needs rather than focusing on reelection goals or the interests of political allies.
In conclusion, the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops calls upon the electorate to choose political candidates who embody core virtues, including integrity and courage. Emphasizing the significance of merit over tribal or religious biases, they advocate for accountable, God-fearing leaders who can address the nation’s challenges effectively and prioritize community well-being. As Malawi gears up for the 2025 elections, these principles serve as a guiding framework for a hopeful and ethical political landscape.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
