By Burnett Munthali
Lilongwe, Malawi – The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has clarified its approach to results transmission for the September 2025 General Elections, stating that results will be transmitted both physically and electronically from Constituency and District Tally Centres to the National Tally Centre.
MEC Chairperson Annabel Mtalimanja made the announcement during a stakeholders’ meeting, addressing concerns raised by political party representatives over the use of Election Management Devices (EMDs) in the results management process.
Mtalimanja explained that while MEC intends to use EMDs in results management, the electoral body is still in the process of developing a specific module for this purpose. She assured stakeholders that once the module is completed, it will undergo consultation with all relevant parties.
“We are working to ensure the system is robust and transparent,” Mtalimanja said. “Stakeholders will be consulted before its implementation to address any concerns and ensure confidence in the process.”
The clarification comes in response to concerns from political parties regarding the role of the EMDs in the elections. Some representatives pointed to statements made by former MEC Chairperson Chifundo Kachale, who had indicated that the devices would be used solely for voter registration.
“I don’t have the context under which the comments were made by the former chairperson,” Mtalimanja said. “However, our policy documents, including the operational plan, clearly state that results transmission will be done both physically and electronically.”
The dual approach to results transmission is designed to enhance the credibility of the electoral process by providing a backup mechanism in case of technical challenges with the electronic system.
Political analysts and election observers have emphasized the importance of transparency in implementing the new system, particularly given the concerns raised by stakeholders.
With the September 2025 elections fast approaching, MEC faces the challenge of balancing technological innovation with the need for stakeholder confidence. The commission’s assurance of consultations and transparency in the development and deployment of the EMD module will likely be a key factor in maintaining public trust.
Malawians now look forward to further updates from MEC on the progress of the results management module and how it will fit into the broader framework of the upcoming elections.
