By Burnett Munthali
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has reminded the public of one of the key regulations guiding campaign conduct as the nation heads toward the 2025 General Elections, slated for 16 September 2025.
With only 127 days left until Malawians go to the polls on 12 May 2025 to cast their votes, electoral awareness campaigns are intensifying across the country.
Among the critical reminders issued by MEC is a provision under the Political Parties (Registration and Regulation) Act—specifically PPLGE Act 56—which governs where and when campaign gatherings may take place.
The Act makes it clear that no person is permitted to convene a public gathering for campaign purposes at or within the premises of a military or police establishment.
This restriction also extends to public institutions, which are meant to serve all citizens equally and must not be co-opted for partisan purposes.
Workplaces are equally protected under this provision, emphasizing that political campaigns must not disrupt the productivity and neutrality expected in professional environments.
Importantly, the rule also applies during working hours, highlighting that employees and officials should not be distracted from their official duties by political activity.
Hospitals, where the primary focus is on health and saving lives, are also declared off-limits for campaign gatherings, underscoring the need for quiet, concentration, and non-political service delivery in healthcare settings.
These provisions serve to uphold the neutrality, professionalism, and operational integrity of essential service institutions across the country during the electoral period.
The regulation further aims to ensure that the electoral environment remains peaceful, organized, and respectful of the boundaries between civic duty and professional obligations.
By reinforcing such rules, MEC seeks to promote a level playing field where political competition occurs in appropriate and accessible public spaces, not in restricted or sensitive environments.
As the countdown to voting day continues, MEC is encouraging all citizens to remain engaged in the electoral process and, importantly, to keep their voter certificates safe.
The Commission has also continued its civic education drive under the theme “Your Vote, Your Right, Your Choice,” stressing the importance of informed, responsible, and peaceful participation.
MEC’s proactive dissemination of election-related information reflects its commitment to transparency, accountability, and upholding democratic values in Malawi.
Through continued public engagement and enforcement of electoral laws, the Commission hopes to deliver a credible, inclusive, and violence-free electoral process in 2025.
Ultimately, the message is clear: while campaigning is a vital part of democratic elections, it must be done within the law, and with respect for institutions that serve all Malawians.
