MEC Inspects Voter Transfers Exercise in Mchinji
The final phase of the voter transfer exercise is scheduled to take place from March 13 to March 15, 2025.
MCHINJI, Malawi — The Chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), Commissioner Emmanuel Fabiano, conducted inspection visits to seven voter transfer centers across four constituencies in Mchinji district on Friday, writes Martha Nakhate Phonera.
Fabiano expressed satisfaction with the ongoing voter transfer exercise.
When asked about the low turnout at some centers, he emphasized that the exercise's purpose was not to force voters to change registration locations but to provide an opportunity for those who needed to transfer due to relocation or other personal reasons.
"We cannot say we're not satisfied, as MEC's intention is not that we want everyone to transfer to another center, but rather that those who wish to do so should be able to transfer to a place where they want to cast their vote," Fabiano stated.
The Commission expressed concern over the absence of political party monitors during the exercise, noting that their presence helps ensure transparency and prevents potential disputes over changes in voter numbers at various centers.
However, Fabiono acknowledged that political parties have the right to decide whether to send representatives to observe the process.
Benjamin Frazer, Center Supervisor for Kaigwazanga Primary School in Mchinji North, reported that the process had been running smoothly without any significant challenges.
"The exercise has been fine because those who came for transfers had legitimate reasons. We have transferred only four people so far," Frazer said.
The second phase of the voter transfer exercise, which began on March 5, concluded on Friday in several districts, including Nkhata Bay, Dowa, Mchinji, Blantyre, Rumphi, and Likoma.
The final phase of the voter transfer exercise is scheduled to take place from March 13 to March 15, 2025.