“The Secretary-General takes note of Malawi's first tripartite elections, to be held on 20 May 2014,” said a statement issued late on Monday by Ban's spokesperson in New York, which added an appeal to the candidates, parties and State institutions to adhere to the Lilongwe Peace Declaration of 10 May to ensure that the elections are free from violence.

 

“The Secretary-General is convinced that a successful process of presidential, parliamentary, and local council elections will be instrumental for the consolidation of democracy in Malawi,” the statement continued, adding that the UN chief commends the work of the Malawi Electoral Commission and all national actors, as well as international partners, for their support to the electoral process.

 

Registration takes place for the May 2014 Tripartite Elections in Malawi. Photo: UNDP Malawi