By Chisomo Phiri
Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Chairperson Annabel Mtalimanja has emphasized that only individuals with national Identity Cards (IDs) will be registered as voters for the 2025 elections.
She said this during a press briefing in Lilongwe on Tuesday.
Mtalimanja encouraged those eligible to vote without IDs to apply for them, noting that expired IDs will still be accepted.
She unveiled the theme for the 2025 general elections as “Promoting Democratic Leadership Through Your Vote,” highlighting the significance of voting in a democracy.
The MEC chairperson stressed that voting is both a right and a civic duty, allowing Malawians to shape their country’s leadership and governance.
She announced that the 2025 General Election will be officially launched on August 2, 2024, in Lilongwe, with various stakeholders invited.
The MEC chairperson said during the launch event, the commission will update stakeholders on implemented activities and outline remaining major activities leading up to the polling day on September 16, 2025.
In preparation for voter registration, Mtalimanja said the commission will conduct demonstrations of the voter registration process using Election Management Devices (EMDs) from July 31 to August 16, 2024.
She said:”Additionally, pilot voter registration will be conducted in selected sites across the country to test registration devices and gather feedback.”
The MEC chairperson also announced that fresh voter registration will be conducted in three phases, with every individual required to register to vote by September 26, 2025.
“This will ensure the accuracy and integrity of the voter register, remove deceased individuals from the register, and provide accurate figures for logistical planning,” she explained.
Finally, Mtalimanja announced that 116 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have been accredited to conduct voter education for the 2025 General Election after a thorough process.
 Chairperson Annabel Mtalimanja has emphasized that only individuals with national Identity Cards (IDs) will be registered as voters for the 2025 elections. She…){kind=link}