By Brenda Kayo:
The National Children’s Commission (NCC) has asked political parties and other stakeholders to stop using children in their activities.
Speaking at a press briefing held in Lilongwe Tuesday, NCC Vice Chairperson Benedicto Kondowe said the commission was concerned with the continued exploitation of children in election activities.
Kondowe said there were reports that some political parties were using children in their political agenda, which is against the law.
“The commission strongly condemns the violations and urges all political actors, institutions and communities to ensure that children are shielded from harm at every stage of the electoral cycle,” Kondowe said
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He further urged stakeholders to develop formal child protection protocols to safeguard children’s rights during elections.
Kondowe said there was a need for all stakeholders to take proactive measures to prevent child exploitation and ensure a safe and protective environment for children during elections.
He said NCC would continue monitoring reports of child exploitation and taking action against individuals or political parties that infringe on children rights.
The NCC is an independent body mandated to oversee all matters affecting children, including holding duty bearers accountable.
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It was established under the 2019 Act of Parliament and became operational in February 2023.
The commission is composed of five commission representatives from the Malawi Human Rights Commission and annually co-opted child commissioners.
