MEC rejects proposal for independent audit of Election Management System
Mtalimanja: Commission finds the scope to be structurally flawed, technically misinformed, legally unsound, and operationally unfeasible
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has rejected a proposal for an independent audit of its Election Management System (EMS), declaring the concept as structurally flawed, legally unsound, and technically misinformed.
In a letter addressed to key political parties including the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), United Democratic Front (UDF), People’s Party (PP), and UTM Party, MEC Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja said the Commission had conducted a thorough review of the proposed audit scope during its meeting on June 5, 2025, and resolved not to permit or pursue the audit.
“The Commission finds the scope to be structurally flawed, technically misinformed, legally unsound, and operationally unfeasible,” said Mtalimanja. “The assumptions presented in the document are insufficient to form the basis for an externally commissioned audit.”
MEC emphasized that its EMS is custom-developed and that the audit proposal misrepresented its configuration by referencing outdated or irrelevant technologies. The Commission also warned that the suggested audit process, which seeks access to core infrastructure, could compromise system security, constitutional control, and electoral integrity.
The Commission underscored its independence as enshrined in Section 76(4) of the Constitution of Malawi, which mandates the MEC to perform its duties free from external interference.
Furthermore, MEC clarified that all political parties had been allowed to inspect the voters’ register and raise any concerns. Anomalies such as duplicate entries and photographic errors were shared with parties for feedback and corrective action.
“As of the date of this letter, no political party has submitted a complaint or petition warranting an audit of the EMS,” the statement reads.
Justice Mtalimanja concluded by assuring stakeholders that MEC retains full control over its electoral systems and will continue internal reviews to uphold transparency and electoral integrity.
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