The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has reported that it successfully defended more than 98 percent of election-related cases brought before the courts following the 2025 General Election, describing the outcome as a strong indication of its adherence to electoral laws and procedures.
MEC Chairperson disclosed the figures during an internal review meeting in Lilongwe, where commissioners and officials are evaluating the conduct, challenges, and successes of the electoral process.
According to Mtalimanja, the majority of cases filed after the election were not directly related to the commission’s management of voting and result transmission. Instead, many centered on allegations involving political violence, voter inducements, and the distribution of handouts by political actors.
She noted that while the commission faced numerous legal challenges during the election period, most of the disputes fell outside MEC’s direct operational responsibilities.
As a result, the courts largely upheld the commission’s position in cases where its actions were challenged.
The chairperson further explained that the legal outcomes provide evidence that the commission generally operated within the framework of the law despite intense public scrutiny and political pressure throughout the electoral cycle.
Mtalimanja acknowledged that some voter registration processes were questioned before the elections, prompting legal action and public debate. However, she said the commission addressed concerns through established legal and administrative channels while continuing preparations for the polls.
The ongoing review meeting is expected to identify lessons from the 2025 General Election and recommend improvements for future electoral exercises. MEC believes that assessing both achievements and challenges will help strengthen public confidence in the country’s democratic processes and electoral institutions.
