The Chisankho Watch Coalition has voiced significant concerns over issues encountered during the first phase of voter registration for Malawi’s 2025 General Elections. The coalition cited widespread misinformation, coercion, and inducement practices that have discouraged some citizens from registering.
At a press briefing in Lilongwe, coalition chairperson Bishop Dr. Gilford Matonga highlighted reports from multiple districts. “In Nkhotakota District, citizens were reportedly asked to present their voter registration slips to enroll in social protection programs, essentially using them as eligibility criteria,” Matonga explained. “This kind of conditional enrollment creates a climate of undue pressure and manipulation, influencing voters in ways that breach electoral ethics.”
In Salima and Ntchisi, Chisankho Watch noted that individuals were reportedly given food items, such as maize, in exchange for their registration slips. “This is a classic case of voter bribery, which is prohibited under Section 41 of the Political Parties Act (2018),” Matonga emphasized. “These activities corrupt the electoral process and can unfairly sway participation.”
Additionally, misinformation on social media has caused confusion, particularly in Chiradzulu Nguludi and Karonga South Constituencies. Rumors falsely claimed that fingerprinting during electronic registration equated to casting a vote. “This misconception discouraged some citizens from registering, as they mistakenly believe their votes are already cast,” Matonga said. “There is an urgent need for voter education to clarify these misunderstandings.”
The coalition’s vice chairperson, Tuntufye Simwimba, commended the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) for its efforts in managing the initial phase of registration, noting that it was conducted peacefully and with well-functioning electronic management devices (EMDs). However, he acknowledged areas needing improvement. “Despite MEC’s efforts, we have identified gaps in reaching out to citizens who are misinformed or hesitant. Targeted voter information campaigns are essential in addressing the concerns raised in the first phase.”
Simwimba also pointed out the need for stronger measures to counter misinformation, handle coercion cases, and resolve disputes arising from boundary demarcations that might affect voter turnout. He further recommended that MEC provide channels for grievance redress, allowing communities to voice their concerns about the registration process.
The coalition additionally urged MEC to improve accessibility at registration centers, especially for individuals with disabilities. “We recommend ramps at all registration centers to ensure they are accessible to everyone, including those using wheelchairs or with mobility limitations,” Simwimba said.
Chisankho Watch has also called on the National Registration Bureau (NRB) to expedite the establishment of additional registration centers which would enable all eligible citizens to acquire the necessary NRB slip for voter registration, which is crucial for a fair and comprehensive registration process.
Chisankho Watch, a coalition comprising the Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP), Public Affairs Committee (PAC), Gender and Justice Unit (GJU), and Meeting Hub (mHub), remains committed to advocating for a credible, transparent, and inclusive election. The coalition hopes that the issues encountered in the first phase can be addressed to foster a more robust and fair registration process in subsequent phases.