The Chakwera administration’s track record in upholding human rights in the country is currently at its peak, as demonstrated by Malawi’s recent election to the UN Human Rights Council. On Tuesday, during the UN General Assembly, 15 new countries were elected to serve on this vital council.
Malawi’s achievement is particularly noteworthy, as she not only secured a position on the council but also received the highest number of votes among African nations, garnering 182 votes. This was followed by Côte d’Ivoire (181), Ghana (179), Burundi (168), and Nigeria (3).
The Human Rights Council, established in 2006, is the primary body within the UN responsible for safeguarding and promoting fundamental freedoms worldwide. Comprising 47 member States, it is elected through a secret ballot by a majority of General Assembly members.
Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera expressed his enthusiasm for this achievement on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Malawi topped the voting for African nations at the UN Human Rights Council. We’re among 15 @UN member states elected to the UNHRC. Vote of confidence in our efforts of promoting & protecting universal rights & freedoms.”