By Jones Gadama
The Public Affairs Committee (PAC) has called on the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to provide clarity on the use of Election Management Devices (EMDs) for results management in the September 16 General elections.
PAC chairperson Monsignor Patrick Thawale said that the quasi-religious body is expecting MEC to articulate issues relating to the use of EMDs, which have attracted resistance from some Malawians, including opposition political parties.
The MEC had contracted Smartmatic, an information technology (IT) company, to supply EMDs and software for the elections.
However, the decision has been met with skepticism, with some stakeholders questioning the reliability and security of the technology.
Smartmatic became the sole bidder after two other companies withdrew from the process, further fueling concerns.
Thawale emphasized that PAC wants MEC to provide detailed information on how the EMDs will be used, and how the results will be managed and transmitted.
“We expect MEC to articulate issues relating to the use of EMDs for results management in the upcoming elections,” he said.
The use of EMDs has been a contentious issue in Malawi, with some stakeholders arguing that it could compromise the integrity of the electoral process.
The concerns have been fueled by the lack of transparency and clarity on how the technology will be used.
The MEC’s decision to use Smartmatic’s EMDs and software has raised questions about the potential risks and benefits of using technology in elections.
While technology can improve the efficiency and accuracy of the electoral process, it also introduces new risks, such as cyber threats and technical glitches.
By seeking clarity on the use of EMDs, PAC is playing its oversight role and ensuring that the electoral process is transparent and credible.
The MEC’s response to PAC’s concerns will be crucial in building trust and confidence in the electoral process.
The upcoming elections are a critical test of Malawi’s democratic institutions, and the use of EMDs will be closely watched by stakeholders.
The MEC must provide clear and transparent information on how the technology will be used to ensure that the elections are free, fair, and credible.
