Malawi Courts Train Magistrates to Handle Election Law Cases
LILONGWE, Malawi — Malawi's judiciary and the country’s electoral body conducted a training program Wednesday to prepare magistrates for handling electoral offences ahead of the 2025 general election, writes AfricaBrief Reporter.
Chief Justice Rizine Mzikamanda emphasized the critical role of courts in maintaining public confidence in the democratic process during the training at Bingu International Conference Centre.
"The Judiciary recognizes the pivotal role that magistrates play in maintaining public trust and confidence in democratic processes, including elections," Mzikamanda said.
"This training is crucial to prepare you to independently and effectively manage any electoral offences that may arise."
Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja noted that court decisions significantly impact public perception of election credibility.
"Once the court makes its pronouncement on an electoral dispute, the matter is generally considered resolved," Mtalimanja said. "This has been the case since the advent of electoral democracy in 1994."
The initiative, organised jointly by the Malawi Electoral Commission and Judiciary Training Committee, aims to strengthen the handling of election-related cases and maintain voter confidence in the electoral system.
Officials said the training would help ensure electoral offences are addressed according to law as the country prepares for next year's general election.