MEC confirms Over 7.2 Million voters registered ahead of September Elections
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has confirmed that 7,203,390 Malawians have registered to vote in the upcoming general elections scheduled for September 16, 2025.
MEC Chairperson, Justice Annabel Mtalimanja made the announcement during the official launch of the campaign period at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe. The event was attended by representatives of political parties, independent candidates, diplomatic missions, civil society, academia, and security agencies.
Justice Mtalimanja emphasized the need for peaceful, issue-based campaigns and called on all stakeholders to promote tolerance and development-focused dialogue.
“The campaign period must be free of hate speech, insults, and violence,” she said, adding that MEC officials are deployed across the country to monitor political activities and ensure compliance with electoral laws. The campaign period officially runs until 6 p.m. on September 15.
Security agencies, particularly the police, were commended for professionalism during the voter registration process, which proceeded without major incidents. Despite the National Statistical Office projecting 10.9 million eligible voters, MEC confirmed 7.2 million successful registrations.
MEC reaffirmed that those with lost or damaged voter ID cards will still be allowed to vote via biometric verification at their original centers. Voting and counting will be manual, with results transmitted from constituency tally centers to district and national levels—eliminating any speculation around electronic voting.
The Commission has partnered with 118 NGOs and deployed 229 Constituency Civic Educators to boost voter awareness. Traditional leaders were reminded to remain non-partisan, supporting voter education while avoiding interference in campaign activities.
The media was urged to ensure fair coverage. The Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) has set up a special committee to handle media complaints during the campaign.
Youth were cautioned against being used for violence or misinformation. “Engage responsibly,” said Mtalimanja, “and verify all information before sharing on social media.”
Key figures from the political and civil space echoed calls for peaceful and credible elections. Ben Chakhame, from the Centre for Multiparty Democracy, urged parties to focus on manifestos and unity. Registrar of Political Parties Kizito Tenthani condemned vote-buying, political interference at funerals and places of worship, and venue monopolization tactics.
Deputy Inspector General of Police Noel Mlowoka Kaira pledged continued security collaboration with MEC and highlighted ongoing training for rapid response in high-risk zones.
Monsignor Patrick Thawale of the Public Affairs Committee (PAC) led prayers for a peaceful and credible election, urging all parties to uphold dignity, non-violence, and respect throughout the process.
