By Suleman Chitera

Three Malawians have taken President Peter Mutharika to the High Court, challenging his decision to relocate the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) headquarters from Lilongwe to Blantyre.

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The applicants—Limbani Phiri, Vanwyk Khobidi Mbubzi Chikasanda, and Beauty Mirrium Kumtomoni—argue that the President acted unlawfully in directing the electoral body to move its main offices. They are seeking an injunction to halt the relocation and want the Chief Justice to determine whether the case qualifies as a constitutional matter.

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The case came before High Court Judge Kenyatta Nyirenda in Lilongwe, where all parties convened to outline the way forward.

Attorney General Frank Mbeta told the court that both sides agreed on the need to submit comprehensive documentation before substantive hearings can begin.

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The court has since set April 27, 2026, as the date for further hearing, with all parties expected to file the necessary legal documents ahead of the session.

The dispute stems from President Mutharika’s directive following his victory in the September 16, 2025 general elections, ordering MEC to shift its headquarters back to Blantyre. The electoral body had previously resisted the move and challenged it in court, but its application was dismissed.

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The case now raises critical legal and constitutional questions regarding executive authority and the independence of electoral institutions in Malawi.