YPU calls for new blood in political parties

The Young Politicians Union (YPU) Mzuzu Chapter has asked political parties in Malawi to take a leaf from UDF which has a youthful leadership, saying it is a sign of hope for young leaders in the country.

The call follows the election of Atupele Muluzi as United Democratic Front (UDF) chairperson and the party’s torch bearer in 2014 presidential elections.

YPU campaign director Mervin Nxumayo said on Friday the youth have potential to lead the country.

“It is high time people started believing that there is potential in the youth. We are asking other parties to follow the UDF’s example and allow the youth to take up top positions in their parties,” he said.

He also encouraged the youth to be bold and ready to take up challenging positions.

The group also commended UDF for giving women a chance to take up top positions.

Institute for Policy Research and Social Empowerment acting director Henry Chingaipe while noting that not all youths could be leaders, said it was important for the youth to take up top positions.

“[But] the youth should not just be given positions for the sake of involving them. They need to articulate their ideas in terms of what they want to achieve. If they are unable to do that, and the old guard seem to have a vision, then let the latter be given the positions,” he said.