Africa-Press – Malawi. The British High Commissioner to Malawi, Fiona Ritchie, has expressed concern over fears of potential violence ahead of the elections in September.
Speaking in Lilongwe, during His Majesty King Charles III’s birthday celebration held at the ambassador’s residence, Ritchie said she has been struck by the number of Malawians who have shared their anxiety about the possibility of unrest during the electoral period.
“As a friend, supporter and ally of Malawi, I worry that so many Malawians across all walks of life raise with me their fears of violence marring September’s election.
“My worry is compounded by the fact that my own country knows the trauma, cost and damage that politically driven violence causes, how quickly it can spill out of control and how long it can take to build back together,” Ritchie said.
She said Malawians have previously demonstrated resilience and unity during moments of political crisis, often choosing to act in the country’s best interest rather than pursuing narrow, short-term gains.
She urged both local stakeholders and international partners to take responsibility for preserving Malawi’s hard-earned peace.
Representing the government at the event, Minister of Secondary Education Madalitso Kambauwa Wirima described the ties between Malawi and the United Kingdom as a “people-to-people partnership that transcends policy.
She highlighted the monarch’s lifelong commitment to public service, especially his early advocacy on climate change, which dates back to 1970, when the then 21-year-old prince delivered a speech warning about plastic pollution and its long-term environmental impact.
“His Majesty’s foresight on climate issues at a time when the world was largely unaware is now central to global discussions. Malawi has felt the brunt of climate change, and if the world had acted sooner, perhaps we would be facing a different reality today,” Wirima said.
Wirima noted that Malawi’s ties with the UK span more than a century, beginning in 1891 when the country—then known as Nyasaland—became a British protectorate.
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II marked this by sending Prince Philip to Malawi.
The UK’s influence has remained deeply rooted in our language, education system, legal structures, and even aspects of our culture.
WIRIMA—We welcome support for electoral integrityShe also recalled the participation of the Malawi Defence Force in King Charles’ coronation ceremony, calling it “a powerful symbol of deep bonds of friendship”.
Wirima lauded the UK’s long-standing support for Malawi’s development through aid and technical expertise across critical sectors such as health, education, climate change, governance and public finance management.
“In public finance, the UK is helping us build a more inclusive economy and address unsustainable debt. Their support aligns with our national goals to improve public services and stimulate sustainable economic growth,” she said.
On the elections, Wirima assured that the government is committed to a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process.
“We share your concerns, High Commissioner, on the dangers of political violence. We welcome the support of the UK and other partners in safeguarding civic education and electoral integrity,” she said.
The event also served as a farewell to Ritchie whose tour of duty in Malawi ends next month.
Wirima applauded Ritchie’s role in supporting Malawi’s public sector reforms, championing cultural exchange, and promoting inclusive development.
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