By Burnett Munthali

Malawi’s 2025 General Elections have become a focal point for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), who are now demanding urgent reforms from the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC).

In a joint letter addressed to MEC Chairperson Justice Dr. Anabel Mtalimanja and the Commissioners, the CSOs voiced serious concerns over the integrity and preparedness of the electoral process.

Their message, titled “Urgent Appeal for Electoral Transparency, Accountability, and Credibility in the 2025 General Elections,” emphasizes their nonpartisan stance, describing their efforts as a patriotic duty to defend democracy.

With the elections scheduled for September 16, 2025, the CSOs said Malawi is at a critical juncture requiring decisive action to protect the people’s will.

They pointed to alarming irregularities in the ongoing voter verification exercise, including missing names, wrong centers, and unexplained deletions, which they say are fueling public mistrust and disenfranchisement.

The organizations attributed many of these problems to the deployment of electronic voting systems, which they argue have a controversial global reputation that casts doubt on electoral transparency.

According to the CSOs, Malawians have overwhelmingly rejected electronic voting system, and its continued use threatens the credibility of the entire process.

They insist that every vote must be protected, demanding immediate action from MEC across several key areas.

First, they called for an immediate independent audit of the voter roll, with results made public, and an extended opportunity for voters to correct their information.

Second, they demanded the full rejection of system and urged MEC to adopt election technologies that are secure, independently verifiable, and trusted by all stakeholders.

Third, the CSOs proposed the involvement of independent local and international auditors to oversee MEC operations before, during, and after the election.

Fourth, they demanded the inclusive participation of political parties, civil society, faith groups, youth, women, traditional leaders, and the media throughout the electoral process.

Fifth, they urged MEC to enhance its voter education efforts in every language and across all platforms to counter disinformation and restore public confidence.

Finally, they stressed the importance of strengthening MEC’s independence while ensuring full accountability to the Malawian people and the Constitution.

Addressing the Commissioners directly, the CSOs reminded them that history had entrusted them with safeguarding Malawi’s democratic future.

They warned that MEC’s role was far greater than administrative—it was a sacred duty to defend the people’s voice and uphold justice.

The CSOs emphasized that they are seeking cooperation, not confrontation.

They pledged their full support if MEC adheres to constitutional and democratic principles but vowed to resist any deviation from these values.

To underline the urgency of their demands, the CSOs gave MEC a seven-day ultimatum to address the issues raised.

Failure to respond, they warned, would prompt them to consult Malawians on the next steps.

They expressed hope that the 2025 elections would be remembered as a moment of unity, renewal, and democratic pride—not marred by irregularities or distrust.

The letter was signed by key figures, including Cde. Edwards Kambanje (Concerned Citizens of Malawi), Evangelist Steve Chimwaza (Umodzi for Peace and Justice), and Joseph Peshi (Economic Freedom Movement).

Other signatories included Prof. Kinka Makoloni, Jonathan Phiri, Kingsley Mpaso of the Malawi Freedom Fighters, and organizations like Human Right Ambassadors and Center for Democracy Watch.

The letter was widely distributed to stakeholders, including the Malawi Human Rights Commission, political parties, diplomatic missions, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Homeland Security, the UN Resident Coordinator, the SADC Electoral Advisory Council, and the African Union.

It was also sent to the Judiciary, the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Public Affairs Committee, and various media houses.

With their demands laid bare, the CSOs made one thing clear: safeguarding democracy is non-negotiable.

The road to 2025 will determine whether Malawi moves forward with confidence—or falls into disillusionment.