LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-A civic group known as Citizens for Credible Elections (CfCE) has formally notified the Lilongwe District Commissioner of its plan to stage a protest on June 26, demanding the immediate resignation of top Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) officials.
The planned demonstration targets MEC Chairperson Annabel Mtalimanja and Chief Elections Officer Andrew Mpesi, whom the group accuses of being politically compromised due to their alleged close affiliation with the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
CfCE claims that the involvement of Mtalimanja and Mpesi in the electoral process undermines the credibility and impartiality of future elections.
The group argues that the two officials are “visibly politically stained” and therefore unfit to preside over a transparent and fair electoral process.
In a letter addressed to the District Commissioner, signed by Lawford Palani, CfCE expressed concern over MEC’s decision to proceed with the use of technology in the upcoming elections, despite opposition from a cross-section of stakeholders.
The group views this move as a sign of a predetermined agenda within the commission.
The letter reads in part, “This unwavering position by MEC reflects a troubling lack of transparency and indicates an underlying motive that is inconsistent with democratic principles.”
CfCE emphasized that the protest is a constitutional right and not a request for permission.
“Just to remind you, protesting is our constitutional right enshrined in the supreme laws of this country. Therefore, this letter is not a request but a notification to enable your office to make the necessary preparations,” the letter states.
The letter has been endorsed by Sylvester Namiwa, Executive Director of the Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI), along with three other concerned individuals.
Unless the government responds to the concerns raised and initiates action against the two MEC officials, CfCE has vowed to go ahead with the protest as scheduled.