Electoral Commission Warns CSO Leaders Against Dual Roles in 2025 Elections
This directive underscores MEC's commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process, free from potential conflicts of interest among key stakeholders.
LILONGWE, Malawi— The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has issued a stern warning to Civil Society Organization (CSO) leaders eyeing political positions in the 2025 general elections, urging them to declare their intentions promptly, writes Martin Kamlaike.
Dr. Limbikani Kamlongera, MEC Commissioner, addressed the issue during an orientation for accredited CSOs at Capita Hotel in Lilongwe on Wednesday.
"If there are some among you who are harboring ambitions of contesting in the election, please reconsider your involvement engagement with Malawi Electoral Commission," Kamlongera said.
The commissioner emphasized that MEC will not tolerate individuals using their accreditation to conduct disguised campaign activities under the guise of voter education.
While acknowledging the contributions of civil society leaders who have transitioned to mainstream politics, Kamlongera stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
"What we are saying is that if you want to contest, it's not that we are telling you to leave your ambitions, but what we are begging is to declare your interests way ahead of time," she explained.
Kamlongera warned that MEC would take action against any CSO leader compromising the electoral process through misuse of their accreditation.
The commission launched preparations for the 2025 general elections on August 2, 2024, setting the stage for Malawians to elect a president, members of parliament, and ward councillors.
This directive underscores MEC's commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process, free from potential conflicts of interest among key stakeholders.