The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has formally presented the preliminary voter’s register for the September 16, 2025 general election to all registered political parties.
Speaking during a press briefing held at Capital Hotel in Lilongwe on Monday, MEC Chairperson Annabel Mtalimanja said this marks a significant milestone in the electoral process as the voters’ register is a critical component of ensuring the integrity and transparency of elections.
She said the preliminary voters’ register will be open for inspection and verification from May 13th to May 31st 2025 in all councils and at all registration centres.
“During this period; voters, political parties and observers can verify the accuracy of the register and report any discrepancies or irregularities,” she said.
Mtalimanja said the Commission has put in place various arrangements to facilitate inspection and verification process which includes posting copies of the voters register at registration centres.
According to Mtalimanja, the process includes distributing electronic copies of the register to registered political parties, making the copies available at the Commission’s regional offices and verification using the SMS system by dialing *2509#.
“The process provides an opportunity for voters to verify their registration details and for political parties to audit and verify the list of voters at each registration centre,” she said.
Mtalimanja said during the quality assurance process, the Commission identified some issues affecting voter images in certain registration centres including unclear photographs and photographs with obscured faces.
“The Commission has compiled a list of affected voters and will implement remedial measures during the inspection and verification period,” she explained.
The Commission has, therefore, urged political parties to handle observation and issues constructively and responsibly, avoiding rushing to the media or social media to announce issues without engaging with the Commission.
