By Rahim Abdul
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has officially commenced the distribution of ballot papers to constituencies across the country in preparation for the highly anticipated September 16, 2025 general elections.
The exercise, which began on September 6, is expected to continue until September 11 and is being carried out in phases starting with the 60 furthest constituencies to ensure timely delivery of voting materials.
MEC Chairperson Justice Anabel Mtalimanja confirmed that the commission received the final batch of ballot papers on Friday, September 5, marking a critical step toward ensuring that all voting materials are ready ahead of election day.
“We have secured enough fuel and security to facilitate the safe transportation of ballot papers and other sensitive materials. Once these materials reach the constituencies, they will be kept under tight security and will only be dispatched to polling stations on September 12,” Mtalimanja explained.
Security agencies, including the Malawi Police Service and the Malawi Defence Force, are working closely with MEC to safeguard the integrity of the process amid concerns over possible electoral malpractice.
The distribution of ballot papers comes at a time of heightened political activity with political parties intensifying their campaigns across the country.
Election observers from both local and international bodies are also expected to closely monitor the distribution and storage of ballot papers to guarantee free, fair and credible elections.
MEC has urged all stakeholders including political parties and voters to remain calm and allow the commission to carry out its duties professionally as Malawi moves closer to a crucial election that will determine the country’s leadership for the next five years.
