By Jones Gadama

In a move that has sparked debate, the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has granted the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) exclusive rights to cover official election results.

This decision means that MBC will be the sole broadcaster of election results, excluding private stations like ZBS, which had previously covered such events.

The MEC’s decision has raised questions about media diversity and the role of public broadcasting in Malawi’s electoral process.

While MBC is a public broadcaster, its exclusive coverage of election results may limit the diversity of voices and perspectives available to the public.

In light of this development, the police have been directed to increase security at MBC to ensure the safety and security of personnel and equipment during the coverage of election results.

This move underscores the importance of protecting the integrity of the electoral process and the role of MBC in disseminating critical information to the public.

The decision to grant MBC exclusive rights to cover election results has implications for the media landscape in Malawi.

Private stations like ZBS, which have previously played a significant role in covering elections, will not be able to broadcast official results. This may impact their ability to provide comprehensive coverage of the electoral process.

As the country prepares for the elections, the MEC’s decision will likely have significant implications for how election results are disseminated to the public.

While MBC’s exclusive coverage may ensure consistency and accuracy in reporting results, it also raises questions about the role of private media in Malawi’s democratic process.

The increased security at MBC is a precautionary measure to prevent any potential disruptions.

MEC sets the record straight: No exclusive broadcasting deal with MBC

By Burnett Munthali

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has rejected claims that it has entered into an exclusive broadcasting arrangement with the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) for the 2025 General Elections.

The false reports, which originated from online publication Malawi Voice, alleged that MBC had been chosen as the sole broadcaster for the electoral process—a claim MEC says is completely unfounded.

In a statement released to the public, MEC made it clear that no media house has been given special status or exclusive rights to cover the elections.

The Commission stressed that it values openness and believes in a pluralistic media environment, especially during elections.

It further assured the nation that it will be inviting all eligible and registered media institutions—public, private, and community—to apply for accreditation.

This accreditation will grant access to cover election-related events, including those at the Main Tally Centre, where results will be compiled and announced.

According to MEC, the media accreditation process will be transparent, inclusive, and conducted without discrimination.

The Commission highlighted that such arrangements are standard practice and part of its efforts to ensure comprehensive and impartial coverage of electoral events.

MEC also warned the public against trusting unofficial sources of information and urged everyone to rely on its official platforms for updates on the electoral process.

As the country heads toward a critical election period, the Commission reaffirmed its neutrality and commitment to fairness.

MEC concluded by emphasizing that its mission is to deliver credible elections in an environment where all stakeholders, including the media, are treated equally.