A WEB

Malawi’s top security leaders and the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) convened at Sunbird Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi on 23 June 2025 for a high-level Joint Electoral Security Preparatory Meeting aimed at enhancing coordination and preparedness ahead of the country’s highly anticipated General Elections scheduled for 16 September 2025.

The meeting brought together senior representatives from the Malawi Police Service, Malawi Defence Force (MDF), Malawi Prison Services, and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services, reaffirming a collective national commitment to safeguarding peace, stability, and democratic integrity during the electoral process.

Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, Chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission, opened the meeting by expressing gratitude to the security agencies for their ongoing support in various electoral phases including voter registration, voter transfers, and inspection of the voters’ register.

“As we approach the nomination period, and with only weeks before Malawians cast their votes, the need for seamless inter-agency cooperation cannot be overstated,” she said. “This election is not just a political process; it is a constitutional and national duty that calls for everyone to be fully hands-on.”

Justice Mtalimanja emphasised that every institution involved carries a constitutional mandate, and the elections offer an opportunity to fulfil that mandate in service of democracy. “The Commission wants this election to become a model—not only in terms of turnout and transparency but also in how security arrangements are managed,” she added.

Inspector General of Police, Mrs. Merlyne Nachulu Yolamu, in her keynote address, underscored the gravity of the responsibility that lies ahead. She outlined five key priorities for electoral security: proactive risk prevention, professional conduct, capacity building, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and fostering public confidence. 

“Our mission transcends mere reaction,” said Yolamu. “We must anticipate risks and act decisively and lawfully. Fragmented efforts or ambiguity in execution is something we cannot afford.”

She called for a unified approach backed by intelligence sharing, early warning systems, and clear Standard Operating Procedures. “This task force must act as the operational hub of our electoral security strategy,” she declared.

Malawi Defence Force representative, Major General Saiford Kalisha, also stressed the importance of maintaining neutrality while providing a safe environment. “Our role is not to interfere but to support. We are here to ensure that the MEC discharges its mandate in a secure and stable setting,” he said.

Kalisha further affirmed MDF’s readiness to work closely with all agencies and called for unity of purpose. “Let us send a message to the nation that we are fully prepared to secure the 2025 General Elections.”

Members of the task force are Malawi Electoral Commission, Malawi Defence Force, Malawi Police Service, Malawi Prison Services and the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services.