Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) commissioner Francis Kasaila says it is possible to achieve credible general elections next year if electorates refrain from behaviours that may frustrate electoral processes.
He said this on Monday in Zomba District during a voter registration sensitisation meeting at Traditional Authority Chikowi in the district which involved traditional and religious leaders.
Kasaila said as the second phase of voter registration starts on November 9 to November 22 2024, people should refrain from wearing political party colours when going for voter registration.
“Do not also attempt to register more than once as this attracts K10 million fine and a five-year custodial sentence,” he said.
Kasaila further challenged people to report any malpractices by MEC officials at registration centres such as late opening, early closure and other unprofessional behaviours.
“Such officers when found guilty will be replaced to foster electoral integrity,” he said.
Magomero Anglican Parish priest the Reverend Father Hope Phillip Mitepa, whose parish is in Zomba Thondwe Constituency, said religious leaders have a critical role to play to motivate their followers to register to vote.
He said they will encourage believers who aspire to contest for local government and parliamentary seats.
“Most importantly, religious leaders should not be partisan,” said Mitepa.
Senior Chief Chikowi urged fellow traditional leaders under her jurisdiction to encourage their subjects to register
