The National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Trust has commended stakeholders for a peaceful transition of power, calling it a momentous milestone in Malawi’s democratic trajectory.
In a statement released on Monday and signed by NICE executive director Gray Kalindekafe, the Trust also congratulated president-elect Arthur Peter Mutharika on his victory in the September 16, 2025 General Elections.
“This juncture is not merely a routine political transition, it is a profound reaffirmation of the sovereign will of the people, the institutional fortitude of our republic, and the indelible promise of democratic continuity.
“We salute the citizenry of Malawi for their impressive participation, their utmost vigilance, and their steadfast belief in the sanctity of the ballot. Their voices have reverberated across the nation, illuminating the path forward with a strong commitment to democratic ideals and constitutionalism,” reads the statement in part
Kalindakafe further saluted outgoing president Lazarus Chakwera for a “dignified acceptance of the electoral verdict symbolizes great statesmanship” which demonstrated “unmatched humility, patriotism, and reverence for democratic norms.”
He added, “his conduct has reduced tension, enhanced national cohesion, and facilitated a seamless transfer of power, an act that shall be permanently marked in Malawi’s political history as a model of democratic maturity.”
Further, NICE Trust commended the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), under the astute stewardship of its Chairperson, Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, alongside the Commissioners and staff, for their professionalism, resilience and integrity.
“Amidst logistical complexities and heightened public scrutiny, MEC executed its mandate with commendable transparency, impartiality and procedural rigor. Their unwavering dedication has increased public confidence and established a formidable benchmark for electoral probity across the region.
“We also acknowledge the great contributions of civil society organizations, the media, security apparatuses, and both domestic and international observers. Their collaborative vigilance and unwavering dedication ensured that the electoral process remained inclusive, peaceful and accountable. Collectively, they constitute the bedrock of a democratic ecosystem that continues to flourish and evolve with each
“As we usher in a new dispensation, we implore President-elect, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika to govern with magnanimity, discernment and unwavering commitment to national unity. We urge him to embrace all Malawians, irrespective of political persuasion, ethnic heritage, religious creed, or regional inclination, and to prioritize reconciliation, equitable development, and the restoration of collective hope.
“The destiny of Malawi hinges on a leadership that listens with empathy, governs with integrity, and inspires with vision in pursuit of the goals of the Malawi 2063. In this spirit, we emphatically call upon the incoming administration to elevate civic education as a national priority.
“An informed citizenry is the cornerstone of a resilient democracy. Investing substantially in civic education will not only empower Malawians to engage meaningfully in governance and public discourse, but will also insulate our society against misinformation, apathy and democratic erosion.
“Civic literacy must be woven into the fabric of our national development strategy, reaching schools, communities and institutions alike. Civic literacy enhances public service delivery. We encourage the incoming administration to strengthen democratic governance, amplify civic education, and safeguard the inalienable rights and liberties enshrined in our Constitution.
“NICE Trust remains resolutely committed to partnering with all stakeholders to deepen civic consciousness, catalyze inclusive dialogue, and empower citizens to actively shape the trajectory of our nation. Let this peaceful transition serve as a beacon to the global community, a testament to what Malawi can accomplish when unity supersedes division, principle transcends partisanship, and patriotism eclipses personal ambition,” he said
