2 mins read

Citizens struggle to obtain National IDs as NRB Offices face operational challenges

By Burnett Munthali In yet another frustrating development, Malawians continue to face significant challenges in obtaining their national IDs from the National Registration Bureau (NRB) offices in Area 18, Lilongwe. A visit by our reporter to the NRB offices at 1 PM yesterday uncovered disturbing inefficiencies, leaving citizens stranded and angry. Read moreMalawi Freedom Network […]

2 mins read

National Identity Card Distribution Boosts Malawi’s National Identification System

By Twink Jones Gadama Malawi’s National Registration Bureau (NRB) has made a significant stride in strengthening the country’s National Identification System with the successful printing and distribution of 3 million National Identity Cards (National IDs) to eligible citizens. This milestone, achieved up to September 2024, underscores the NRB’s commitment to ensuring all citizens have access […]

6 mins read

Malawi on the Brink: Allegations of Voter Registration Irregularities and the Threat of Civil Unrest

By Twink Jones Gadama In a nation already grappling with socio-political tensions, Malawi finds itself at a critical juncture as allegations of voter registration irregularities surface, raising fears of potential civil unrest and even genocide. Read moreZuneth Sattar’s investigation: Why is ACB only exposing suppliers while hiding officers who awards contracts?The recent discovery of voter […]

1 min read

MEC and NRB to Host Joint Press Briefing on 11 December 2024

By Burnett Munthali The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and the National Registration Bureau (NRB) will come together for a joint press briefing on 11 December 2024. This event is set to provide essential updates on the work both organizations are doing to enhance the country’s electoral and national registration systems. Read moreMalawi Government Faulted Over […]

3 mins read

NRB accused of defying court ruling on side-by-side registration

By Burnett Munthali Despite a court ruling mandating the National Registration Bureau (NRB) to operate alongside the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) during the voter registration process, reports suggest that NRB continues to ignore this directive. The decision by the court was meant to address logistical challenges and ensure that citizens, particularly first-time voters, are seamlessly […]

1 min read

Opposition Unites Against MEC and NRB: Demands Transparency and Fairness

Malawi’s opposition parties have joined forces to protest the handling of the electoral process by the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and National Registration Bureau (NRB). The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), United Democratic Front (UDF), UTM, and Alliance for Democracy (AFORD) have notified the Lilongwe District Commissioner of their intention to hold demonstrations and vigils. Read […]

1 min read

NRB Expands Biometric Registration Centers Amid Voter Registration Drive

The National Registration Bureau (NRB) has announced the opening of additional National Identity Biometric Registration Centers across all districts where the Voter Registration exercise is currently underway. This move is aimed at ensuring that all eligible citizens can participate in the upcoming elections. Read moreMalawi Freedom Network advice President Banda to fight corruptionIn a media […]

2 mins read

Analysis: Power challenges impacting National Registration Services at Bangwe Post Office

By Burnett Munthali At the Bangwe Post Office, the National Registration Bureau (NRB) established an ID registration center to serve residents seeking to obtain or renew their national identity cards. However, for nearly a month now, this center has been inactive due to a lack of electricity, causing frustration and delays for many citizens dependent […]

1 min read

Analysis: Viral video sparks outrage over MEC’s voter registration directive

By Burnett Munthali A video circulating on social media has stirred public concern about the Malawi Electoral Commission’s (MEC) voter registration procedures. In the video, an MEC official reportedly states that new voters without national IDs must travel to Blantyre to acquire one before being allowed to register at local polling stations. The directive contradicts […]

1 min read

Malawians will not be Silenced

The Malawi Electoral Commission’s (MEC) handling of the 2025 elections has raised serious concerns among opposition parties and the general public. The opposition parties, namely Aford, DPP, UDF, and UTM, have written to the MEC Chairperson, Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, expressing their discontent with the electoral process and demanding immediate action to address the issues. The […]