A report by Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) on 2025 general election has commended Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) for a peaceful and orderly elections in both phases.
The highlights include high turn out of registered voters in most areas, presence of security personnel during campaigns, the voting day and after, peaceful campaign period despite few violence cases which were reported in some parts of the country including hate speech from both opposition and ruling party.
The report also commends MEC for proper procedure when announcing results using manual and computerised verification methods.
However, the report has revealed low female representation, noting that only one female candidate represented women in the presidential election and 21 % in parliamentary seats.
The report also establishes that there was no safeguarding rights of children as some children were seen campaigning for candidates on social media through pictures and videos.
The report further reveals that 70% of poling centres started on time.
MHRC among others has urged MEC to undertake a review of electoral laws and other relevant legislation and procedures to address key gaps in the legal framework related to elections such as provision of campaigns in prisons.
