……Malawi’s Democracy in Peril: Declining Voter Interest Demands Urgent Action

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The country’s Civil Society Elections Integrity Forum (CSEIF) is unhappy with the sharp decline in voter registration.

The concern comes barely a day after Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) released number of possible voters for September 16, 2025 elections.

According to MEC release on February 6, the projected number of registered voters was 10.9 million, yet only 7,200,905 (65.7%) have registered—a significant drop from previous elections.

In contrast, 80% registered in 2019, and 93.2% in 2014. Even during supplementary registration, only 24,078 people registered out of a targeted 271,784.

In a press statement issued on Friday, September 7, 2025, CSEIF Interim Chairperson Benedicto Kondowe observes that the current trend is alarming and threatens Malawi’s democracy.

“Voter apathy is not accidental; it is a direct reflection of the growing disillusionment among Malawians who feel betrayed by politicians who fail to deliver on their promises.

“Additionally, it is disheartening that some political parties actively discouraged voter registration—a reckless act that undermines the democratic process,” reads CSEIF statement in part.

Kondowe urges, “Political parties must own up to their role in this crisis instead of shifting blame solely to MEC. Another critical factor is the lack of adequate voter and civic education.

“Many accredited NGOs and other civic actors do not have funding for these crucial programs, leaving millions uninformed about the importance of participating in elections”.

CSEIF observes further, “If this challenge is not urgently addressed, we risk an even lower voter turnout on polling day.

“CSEIF calls for urgent and intensified awareness campaigns to ensure that the majority of registered voters turn out and vote on 16 September 2025”.

He added, “The challenge now is to restore faith in the electoral process and inspire Malawians to exercise their constitutional right”.

CSEIF appeals, “We call upon political parties, civil society, religious leaders, and all stakeholders to work together with MEC in rebuilding public confidence in elections.

“Malawi’s democracy is at stake.The 2025 elections must not be decided by apathy, but by the will of the people”.