By Ralph Charles Chinomba

Mangochi, June 24, Mana: Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Chairperson, Justice Annabel Mtalimanja has urged Malawi Police Service, Malawi Defence Force and Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services to uphold their constitutional duties in collaboration with the commission in conducting peaceful, free and fair election on September 16, 2025.

Mtalimanja made the call on Monday during a joint security meeting between MEC and security agencies in Mangochi.

She said security agencies have legal and moral responsibility to serve, protect and defend the people of Malawi and the institutions of the Republic of Malawi.

Mtalimanja described elections as the largest, most complex national undertaking, saying it mobilizes institutions within government sectors, engages millions of citizens and attracts local and international scrutiny; hence, the need for security agencies to work as mandated.

“Today's meeting is so important because it marks our resolve to strengthen inter-agency cooperation. It is about moving from isolated responses to coordinated planning.

“We must be intentional, proactive and coordinated. The 2025 General Election must be peaceful, orderly, inclusive and secure,” she added.

Mtalimanja said the commission wanted every Malawian to go to a polling station, vote freely and return home safely

“This is our shared vision and the commission is committed to fulfilling this desire,” the Commissioner added.

She, therefore, commended the Malawi Police, Malawi Defence Force and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services for their dedication since commencement of the 2025 electoral calendar.

In her remarks, Inspector General of the Malawi Police Service, Merlyne Yolamu said the service was confident to provide ultimate security during the electoral cycle after a thorough assessment and addressing gaps identified in previous elections.

Major General Saiford Kalisha, from Malawi Defence Force, described the joint electoral security meeting as significant, emphasizing the need for security agencies to uphold their mandate in providing tight security, thereby allowing citizens to exercise their democratic right to vote.

The joint security taskforce has developed strategies, including capacity building, professional conduct, enhanced collaboration and established joint command centres to facilitate smooth coordination in providing security to ensure a peaceful and secure electoral environment.