Electoral Tensions Mount: Activists Accuse MEC of Arrogance, Vow More Protests

Pressure is mounting on the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) as the Citizens for Credible Elections (CFCE) has renewed its commitment to holding nationwide protests, accusing the electoral body of ignoring citizens’ demands and undermining democratic accountability.

CFCE spokesperson Edwards Kambanje said on Wednesday that the Commission’s silence—seven days after receiving petitions in Blantyre, Mangochi, and Mzuzu—was “not only a sign of disrespect but also a blatant disregard for democratic values.”

“The silence from MEC is not just disappointing—it’s a calculated insult to the people of Malawi,” Kambanje said. “Our petition raised serious concerns about electoral integrity, and to this day, not even an acknowledgment has come from the Commission. This arrogance is unacceptable, and we will not be silenced.”

The protests, which initially took place peacefully in several cities, were marred by violence last week in Lilongwe. Lead organizer Sylvester Namiwa was assaulted, a public address system was stolen, and two vehicles were torched by unidentified thugs, raising fears of growing political tension as Malawi heads toward the 2025 polls.

MEC Director of Media and Public Relations, Sangwani Mwafulirwa, said the Commission will comment on the matter in due course.

Meanwhile, political analyst Vincent Rangel weighed in on the developments, saying CFCE’s frustrations are legitimate given MEC’s continued silence. However, he warned the group against falling into political manipulation.

“CFCE’s call for transparency is valid. But the moment political actors hijack such movements, the message gets lost in violence and division,” Rangel cautioned. “They must maintain independence and focus on issue-based advocacy.”

As tensions escalate, the CFCE maintains that its protests are not politically motivated but are aimed at ensuring that Malawi’s electoral processes are credible and trustworthy.

“Democracy is not a favour—it’s a right. And if MEC refuses to listen, we’ll make them hear us,” Kambanje added defiantly.