Opposition parties in Malawi have intensified their calls for the resignation of Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Chairperson Justice Anabel Mtalimanja, citing concerns over her “compromised status” and alleging conflicts of interest.

In a joint letter addressed to Mtalimanja, the leaders of the United Democratic Front (UDF), UTM Party, Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) have voiced their concerns about her ability to lead impartially.

Signed by the General Secretaries of each party, the letter accuses Mtalimanja of incompetence and claims her ties to the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) undermine her neutrality in overseeing the electoral process.

A central point in their grievance is the allegation that Mtalimanja is the daughter of the late MCP leader, John Tembo. The opposition argues that this connection creates a potential conflict of interest, raising questions about her capacity to remain unbiased in her role.

The letter also extends its demands to MEC’s Chief Executive Officer, calling for his resignation, and urges the termination of MEC’s contract with SMARTMATIC, the firm appointed to handle the technical aspects of the election process. The opposition parties argue that the choice of this firm could compromise the integrity of the elections.

“Failure to unconditionally meet these demands, after 13th November 2024, will call for unspecified actions including but not limited to unending vigils at MEC’s head and regional offices until all demands are met and in sheer pursuit of justice and fairness,” reads a portion of the letter.

This escalation adds further pressure on Mtalimanja and the electoral commission as the country prepares for upcoming elections. The MEC has yet to respond to the letter or comment on the opposition’s demands, and tensions are rising as opposition leaders rally their supporters in anticipation of potential protest actions if their demands go unmet.

Source;MIJ Online