Interactive Websites for Political Campaigning in Malawi

So far, it is demoralizing to learn that although political parties in other countries have taken a lead in using the Internet to promote their agendas, none of the parties in Malawi does possess even a very basic website, including the ruling party itself.

In addition to providing access to information, the Internet can also serve as an arena for socio-political and economic advancement, as well as political campaign. The main advantage of Internet use is a substantial increase in information flow both from and to your political organization/party.

More people will be aware in a faster and cheaper way of your activities, services and publications. They will also be able to contact you very easily. On the other hand you will stay up-to-date with the latest information and activities in political arena.

When using the web as a tool for social and political change, as well as for campaigning, here are some things to consider:

What will the website let you do?

• Can electorates contact a political official? Some sites will let people send an email directly to their legislator on certain issues.
• How can one make their voice and opinion heard? Some sites use the web to mobilize a virtual community through polling. Other sites offer online petitions on various issues for people to sign.

What can you learn from the site?

• Learn who to contact: Sites for political parties may offer email directories of their elected officials.
• Learn about the political issues concerning the political party.
• Online updates: Political parties keep alert lists and listserves, which will keep its followers informed on the issues and activities.
• Learn how to organize: Action sites may provide "tool kits" and other resources to help the youth, for example, to organize social and political activism in schools or community.