Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Secretary General Richard Chimwendo Banda has urged the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to provide explicit guidance on the definition and enforcement of campaign handout rules. His call comes after remarks made by MEC Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja during the official launch of the campaign period for Malawi’s September 16 General Elections.
Chimwendo Banda, speaking at the campaign launch event in Lilongwe, acknowledged the importance of upholding the electoral code of conduct but expressed concern over what he described as a grey area in the regulations. He questioned whether logistical support, such as transport for party volunteers and committee members, could be misinterpreted as illegal inducements.
“We need more clarity on what exactly constitutes a handout,” he said. “If the restriction extends to things like transport allowances for committee members and volunteers who are helping organize our rallies, then this could be a serious logistical challenge.” Chimwendo emphasized that political organizing involves extensive coordination, often across long distances.
He argued that political parties rely on multi-tier structures—from area to national committees—and that these personnel must travel to campaign venues. Without clear direction from MEC, he said, parties risk falling foul of the law even when acting in good faith. The absence of specific guidance, he warned, could open the door to selective enforcement.
“We don’t want to see a situation where the law is applied inconsistently,” he added. “If some organizers receive transport support and others do not, it could create confusion and unfair disadvantages. We therefore urge MEC and the Registrar of Political Parties to provide detailed guidance to all stakeholders.”
Despite raising these concerns, Chimwendo Banda applauded MEC for formally launching the campaign season and reaffirmed MCP’s commitment to issue-based campaigning. He pledged that his party would abide by all legal requirements and promote peaceful, policy-driven political discourse.
Justice Mtalimanja, speaking earlier at the same event, reiterated MEC’s firm stance against campaign handouts, describing them as a threat to electoral fairness. She warned that candidates or parties engaging in such practices risk penalties including fines and possible disqualification. Her comments underscored MEC’s intent to uphold integrity throughout the campaign period.
“This is the era for campaign programmes focused on ideas, accountability, and public service—not for personal attacks or vote-buying tactics,” said Mtalimanja. “Candidates or parties that engage in giving out handouts risk alienating voters and undermining the integrity of their campaigns.”
Citing Section 55 of the Presidential, Parliamentary and Local Government Elections Act, she reminded stakeholders that the law prohibits the distribution of gifts—including cash, food, or materials—with the intent of influencing voters. However, she assured parties that any enforcement would follow due process, with the right to be heard preserved.
Mtalimanja further urged political parties to prioritize peaceful engagement and to provide space for all candidates, especially women, to participate fully and safely. Her appeal resonated with broader calls for inclusive and respectful campaigning as the country prepares for a critical electoral milestone.
With the campaign season now officially underway, the question of what constitutes a handout remains a key concern for political actors. The call for clarity reflects a broader need to ensure a level playing field and to safeguard the credibility of Malawi’s democratic process in the lead-up to the September 16 elections.
