By Cathy Maulidi:
Aspiring members of parliament and councillors with disabilities and youth have been urged to grasp the intricacies of political dynamics to enhance their chances of success in the 2025 general elections.
This advice was delivered by Thyolo Central Member of Parliament, Ben Phiri, during a Capacity Building Training session designed for male youth and persons with disabilities seeking to contest the September 16, 2025, elections.
The training, organized by Oxfam in Malawi and the Women’s Legal Resources Centre (WOLREC), with funding from the European Union, aimed to equip participants with essential skills in conducting issue-based campaigns, policy advocacy, and media engagement.
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This is initiative is part of the “Promoting Gender Transformative and Youth-Inclusive Democracy” project, implemented by the two organizations.
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Addressing the male youth and persons with disabilities, Phiri, a seasoned politician and former minister in the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), stressed the necessity of understanding the political landscape before embarking on a campaign.
“Firstly, one should not enter a race without comprehending its dynamics. I advise you to cultivate a vision and passion to understand politics. Furthermore, you must stay abreast of current trends, as politics is a constantly evolving competitive arena. Adequate preparation is crucial,” Phiri said.
Phiri also encouraged the youth and persons with disabilities to introduce substance to politics by advocating for transformative change and abandoning outdated practices such as handout distribution.
“If your pursuit is wealth, then politics is not the appropriate path for you, as it will inevitably lead you to corruption. This is not a money-making venture. Viewing politics in this manner will compromise development and public resources, which is unacceptable,” he further advised.
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Jaffe Mussa, a youth MP aspirant for the Salima Central West constituency, running under the UTM ticket, commended WOLREC and Oxfam for organizing the training, noting its significant contribution to their campaign preparedness.
“We needed guidance from someone with extensive political experience. We are leaving feeling energized and prepared for the campaign period. Young people often face challenges entering politics, and the insights shared by Honourable Phiri have been invaluable,” Mussa said.
Alexander Shoti, an aspirant with a disability contesting in the newly formed Mikoko constituency in Machinga under the Malawi Congress Party ticket, acknowledged the training’s role in providing him with skills to conduct an issue-based campaign.
“As a person with a disability, I needed this encouragement to boost my self-confidence. We have been encouraged to approach the upcoming campaign with courage, and I am determined to achieve my aspirations,” he said.
The training also facilitated networking and interaction between aspiring parliamentary and local government candidates with disabilities and youth and prominent politicians, who shared their political experiences and lessons.
