By Burnett Munthali
Former President and leader of the People’s Party (PP), Dr. Joyce Banda, has issued a stern warning to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and the National Registration Bureau (NRB), saying that their actions in denying citizens the right to register to vote could lead to civil unrest in the country. Banda’s comments came during a mass rally today at Chinkhoma ground in Kasungu District, where she addressed thousands of Malawians about the current state of voter registration ahead of the 2025 general elections.
Dr. Banda accused both MEC and NRB of deliberately failing to register eligible citizens for political reasons, stating that this could disenfranchise many Malawians and deny them their constitutional right to vote. She suggested that such actions could potentially ignite violence, which she described as “civil war,” warning that if these two government agencies continue with their practices, they would be directly responsible for the chaos that could follow.
The former president provided specific examples where many Malawians were being unjustly denied the opportunity to register, despite having the necessary documentation and fulfilling the required criteria. She highlighted that citizens were being turned away from registration centers without valid reasons, in stark contrast to court orders that directed MEC and NRB to ensure that all eligible voters are registered without discrimination.
Banda’s statement echoes growing concerns about the state of electoral processes in Malawi, particularly regarding the efficiency and transparency of voter registration. She emphasized that it is critical for all government agencies involved in the electoral process to adhere to the rule of law and ensure that every eligible citizen has the right to participate in the democratic process.
Furthermore, Banda’s comments come at a time when the country is preparing for a high-stakes election in 2025, and many are worried about the credibility of the electoral process. With the government facing mounting criticism for its handling of various sectors, Banda’s remarks serve as a reminder that the political stability of the country depends heavily on a fair and transparent election process.
In her speech, Dr. Banda urged Malawians to remain vigilant and to stand up for their rights. She called on citizens to report any instances of disenfranchisement and to work together to ensure that their voices are heard come election day. She also demanded accountability from MEC and NRB, stressing that these institutions must not be allowed to undermine the democratic process.
In conclusion, Dr. Joyce Banda’s warning serves as a stark reminder of the deepening political tensions in Malawi. Her call for justice and fairness in the voter registration process is a crucial message for all stakeholders involved in the electoral process, as the country braces for the upcoming elections. If the concerns raised by Banda and other critics are not addressed, Malawi could face serious repercussions that could threaten the stability of its democracy.
, Dr. Joyce Banda, has issued a stern warning to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and the National Registration…){kind=link}