By Burnett Munthali
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has called on political parties to use the campaign period as an opportunity to explain their manifestos to the electorate.
Speaking during the official launch of the 2025 General Elections campaign period, MEC Chairperson Justice Annabelle Mtalimanja emphasized the importance of issue-based campaigns.
She said this is the time for parties to outline their policies, priorities, and development plans so that voters can make informed decisions at the ballot box.
According to Mtalimanja, the campaign period is not just a time for rallies and slogans, but a crucial platform for political education and public engagement.
She stressed that the responsibility lies with political leaders to clearly articulate how their vision will address the social and economic challenges facing Malawi.
Mtalimanja highlighted that when voters are equipped with clear and credible information, they are more likely to participate meaningfully in the democratic process.
She urged political parties to present practical solutions to national issues such as unemployment, healthcare, education, and economic growth.
The MEC Chair also noted that manifestos must be communicated in a way that is accessible to all Malawians, including those in rural areas and those with limited literacy.
She further called on the media to support this process by providing fair and balanced coverage of party manifestos and helping to unpack complex policy ideas for the general public.
Mtalimanja concluded by reminding all candidates that the power of democracy lies in the people—and the people deserve to vote based on knowledge, not noise.
Her remarks serve as a strong appeal for a mature, respectful, and informative campaign season that empowers voters to choose leaders based on substance, not slogans.
