By Burnett Munthali

Umodzi Party (UP) has urged the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to remain steadfast amid calls from opposition parties for the resignation of its Chairperson, Justice Anabel Mtalimanja. UP President Thomas Wezzie Kaumba has dismissed the opposition’s demands, describing them as driven by “bitterness” rather than a genuine desire to protect Malawians’ interests.

Kaumba shared his views stating, “The opposition parties know they stand little chance of winning next year’s elections, and that is why they are calling for Mtalimanja’s resignation.” He further argued that if the opposition had valid evidence to suggest electoral manipulation by Mtalimanja, they should take their grievances to court rather than resorting to public pressure.

“As UP, we urge Mtalimanja to stand firm and not give in to these baseless calls,” Kaumba emphasized, reiterating that the chairperson’s role is critical in ensuring a smooth electoral process ahead of the 2025 elections.

The statement from Kaumba comes as opposition parties intensify their calls for Mtalimanja’s resignation. The opposition’s concerns are formalized in a letter addressed to Mtalimanja, signed by representatives of key opposition parties, including the United Democratic Front (UDF), UTM Party, the Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).

In the letter, the opposition parties accuse Mtalimanja of compromised leadership, questioning her neutrality in overseeing the electoral process. Their criticism is partially based on her family background, as she is the daughter of the late John Tembo, a former president of the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP). Opposition leaders argue that this connection could present a conflict of interest and impact her impartiality.

The opposition’s demands for Mtalimanja’s resignation have fueled ongoing debates about transparency and fairness in Malawi’s electoral system, with some citizens expressing concerns about the potential for political interference.

With the 2025 general elections fast approaching, Kaumba’s defense of Mtalimanja signals that UP is aligning itself with the current leadership at MEC, pushing back against opposition criticism. Kaumba’s position underscores a broader message that, while political scrutiny is essential, accusations should be backed by evidence.

As tensions build, the call for an impartial and credible electoral process remains paramount for all parties involved. Whether Mtalimanja will continue to lead MEC without further opposition interference will be closely watched as Malawi prepares for what could be a pivotal election.