Opinion: MCP’s control of MEC sparks alarm

By Twink Jones Gadama

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has become a puppet of the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP), with the party’s operatives calling the shots and dictating the commission’s operations.

This has raised concerns among Malawians that the 2024 elections may be rigged.

According to sources, the new MEC chair, Annabel Mtalimanja, has become a puppet of MCP’s Andrew Mpesi, who serves as the commission’s CEO.

President Lazarus Chakwera has appointed Justice Annabel Mtalimanja as the new chairperson for the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC).

Justice Mtalimanja replaces Justice Dr. Chifundo Kachale, who has served the commission in that capacity since 2020. pic.twitter.com/F56RAq7WpX

— Zodiak Online (@zodiakonline) June 20, 2024

Mpesi, a known MCP hardliner, has usurped the powers of the MEC chair and is pushing out old guards to make way for MCP loyalists.

The commission’s recruitment process has also been compromised, with MCP zealots being brought in to occupy strategic positions.

Potani, a professional at MEC, has been redeployed to serve as a diplomat, making way for Botha, an MCP die-hard from Salima.

Malawians are worried that the MEC’s neutrality has been compromised, with senior MCP officials giving instructions to Mpesi and Mtalimanja.

NAP calls for new MEC Chairperson Mtalimanja’s impartiality for 2025 credible elections

The commission’s impartiality is crucial in ensuring free and fair elections, but with MCP’s grip on the MEC, this is no longer guaranteed.

The situation has drawn comparisons to the tenure of former MEC chair, Chifundo Kachale PhD, who was known for his impartiality and professionalism.

In contrast, Mtalimanja is seen as an MCP supporter who is getting instructions from Mpesi and the party.

Mpesi’s appointment as MEC CEO was controversial, given his background as an MCP supporter and former personal assistant to President Chakwera.

Chakwera appoints Judge Annabel Mtalimanja as new MEC chairperson

His appointment was seen as a violation of the MEC laws, which stipulate that the CEO must be apolitical.

The development has sparked calls for Malawians to stand up against the maladministration at the MEC.

With the 2024 elections looming, it is crucial that the commission’s neutrality is restored to ensure free and fair elections.

The MCP’s grip on the MEC has raised serious concerns about the integrity of the electoral process in Malawi.

It is essential that the commission’s impartiality is restored to ensure that the will of the people is reflected in the outcome of the elections.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the article are those of the author not necessarily of The Maravi Post or the Editor