By Jones Gadama
The Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has challenged the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to provide a detailed account of how the election management system procured from Smartmatic will be used in the September 16 general election.
In a statement issued by HRDC chairperson Gift Trapence, the organization expressed concerns over the level of politically motivated violence and misinformation surrounding the electoral management system.
Trapence emphasized that Malawians deserve issue-based campaigns, not chaos, insults, and intimidation.
He called on political party leaders to adhere to the elections code of conduct, which advocates for peace and unity.
“We need to promote a culture of respect and tolerance, and ensure that our elections are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner,” Trapence said.
While the HRDC supports the adoption of the Smartmatic system, they stress the need for a reformed, professional, and independent MEC to manage the polls with integrity.
“We believe that the MEC should be transparent about how the Smartmatic system will work, and ensure that it is used to enhance the credibility of the electoral process,” Trapence added.
The HRDC’s demands highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
As Malawi prepares for the general election, it is crucial that the MEC provides clear information about the Smartmatic system and ensures that it is used to promote the integrity of the polls.
The organization’s concerns about politically motivated violence and misinformation are also timely, given the current campaign environment.
By promoting issue-based campaigns and adhering to the elections code of conduct, political party leaders can help to create a peaceful and respectful electoral environment.
The HRDC’s challenge to the MEC is a call for greater transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
By providing clear information about the Smartmatic system and ensuring its integrity, the MEC can help to build trust in the electoral process and promote a peaceful and credible general election.
