By Burnett Munthali
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has issued a strong rebuttal against widely circulating social media rumours alleging the resignation of its Chairperson, Justice Annabel Mtalimanja.
In an official statement released by the Commission’s Director of Media and Public Relations, Sangwani Mwafulirwa, MEC categorically dismissed the claims, calling them “completely false” and urging the public to disregard them in their entirety.
Mwafulirwa emphasized that Justice Mtalimanja remains steadfast in her position and is actively executing her constitutional duties without interruption.
He further clarified that no resignation has taken place and that there has been no such development within the Commission.
MEC warned that the spread of such misinformation is not only irresponsible but also dangerous, especially in the current climate of electoral preparation.
The Commission noted that such fabrications can mislead the public and significantly undermine confidence in the electoral process and the broader democratic framework.
It called on all stakeholders, including citizens, political players, and media houses, to refrain from fabricating, circulating, or amplifying falsehoods related to the electoral body.
MEC also reminded the public that responsible communication is essential to preserving the integrity of democratic institutions and fostering informed public discourse.
To prevent further confusion, MEC urged Malawians to verify any election-related information through its official communication platforms.
These include the Commission’s website, official press releases, and verified social media accounts, which serve as the only credible sources for updates and announcements.
The statement concluded with contact details for the Commission, providing mobile numbers for further media or public inquiries.
This official response comes at a time when trust in the electoral process is vital, and the spread of fake news could have destabilizing effects on the political environment.
As Malawi moves closer to upcoming elections, the MEC continues to stress the importance of factual information and public vigilance against misinformation.
