Former President Bakili Muluzi has expressed concern over rising intra- and interparty conflicts and intolerance ahead of Malawi’s general elections scheduled for 16 September.

He made the remarks on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the Malawi Commission for Peace and Unity at his residence in Blantyre.

Muluzi warned that political intolerance undermines democracy and urged all political parties to promote peaceful coexistence, regardless of ideological differences.

“Conflicts and intolerance defeat the very essence of democracy,” he said, appealing to political leaders and supporters alike to embrace tolerance as the country heads toward the polls.

Mary Nkosi, Chairperson of the Malawi Commission for Peace and Unity, said the Commission is actively engaging political stakeholders to serve as peace ambassadors throughout the election period.