By Santos Zefania
Lilongwe, June 23, Mana: The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) on Monday convened a joint meeting with the country’s key security agencies, including the Malawi Police Service, Malawi Defence Force, Malawi Prisons Service, and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services at Nkopola in Mangochi to strategize on ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process.
According to the Chairperson for Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, the gathering underscored the critical role that security institutions play in safeguarding the democratic process as the country prepares for the upcoming general election.
In her presentation during the joint meeting, she commended representatives from the Malawi Defence Force, Malawi Police Service, Malawi Prisons Service, and the Department of Immigration, noting that their presence reaffirms their commitment to the electoral cycle and reflects the country’s continued progress in democratic governance.
"Every security agent carries a constitutional mandate, a legal and moral responsibility to serve, protect, and defend the people of Malawi.
"We must build joint operational frameworks, shared communication protocols, and unified command structures where necessary," Mtalimanja said.
The Chairperson also highlighted the vision that the 2025 General Election must be peaceful, orderly, inclusive, and secure,
"For this election to be remembered not just as a successful election, but as a moment when our institutions worked together to deliver peace, stability, and national pride, we must join hands,” she added.
Meanwhile, renowned political analyst Czar Kondowe has commended the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) for convening the joint meeting, emphasizing the importance of involving security agencies in monitoring the electoral process. He urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and carry out their duties diligently.
“These elections require strong security measures, not only during the transfer of votes from polling stations to the tally centre, but also in protecting officials responsible for managing the elections, as these are critical areas,” said Kondowe.
