MEC Chair Receives EU Final Election Observation Report, Pledges Reforms and Continued Engagement

Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Chairperson, Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, on Tuesday formally received the final report of the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to the 2025 Malawi General Election, describing the document as a vital tool for reflection, accountability and continuous improvement of the country’s electoral processes.

Speaking during the official handover ceremony in Lilongwe, Justice Mtalimanja thanked the EU for honouring Malawi’s invitation to observe the September 16, 2025 General Election and for returning to present its findings in person.

“Your presence was not only welcome but also highly valued,” said Mtalimanja, noting that while several international observers were invited, some failed to attend. She said the EU’s engagement symbolised respect, partnership and a shared commitment to strengthening democracy in Malawi.

The EU EOM was led by Chief Observer Lucia Annunziata, a Member of the European Parliament, and attended by European Union Ambassador to Malawi, His Excellency Daniel Aristi Gaztelumendi, MEC commissioners, senior MEC officials, and members of the EU delegation.

Justice Mtalimanja praised the EU as a longstanding and reliable partner to Malawi’s democratic institutions, highlighting the impact of past EU observer recommendations in shaping legal reforms, policy discussions and administrative improvements in election management.

She also expressed gratitude for the EU’s financial contribution to the election basket fund through the Malawi Elections Support Programme (MESP), coordinated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). According to the MEC Chairperson, the support—together with substantial funding from the Malawi Government—was critical in ensuring that the 2025 General Election was professionally managed, transparent and inclusive.

“The EU has supported us not only as an observer but also as a development partner, particularly in electoral matters,” she said.

Justice Mtalimanja emphasised that the presentation of the EU’s final report was not a mere formality but a substantive step towards improving future elections. She said election observation provides independent assessment, helps build public confidence and plays a role in conflict prevention by reducing speculation, misinformation and mistrust.

“As an Election Management Body, we do not view observer reports as criticism or external imposition, but as invaluable resources from experts who have a genuine interest in Malawi’s democratic progress,” she stated.

She confirmed that MEC will carefully study the EU EOM recommendations alongside reports from other domestic and international observers as part of its post-election review. The Commission, she said, will adopt a holistic approach to identify strengths, address weaknesses and consider innovations ahead of future elections.

Justice Mtalimanja further underscored that strengthening electoral processes must be continuous, not limited to election periods. She called for structured and sustained dialogue between MEC and the European Union to ensure that recommendations are translated into practical and timely reforms.

In her concluding remarks, the MEC Chairperson commended MEC commissioners, permanent and temporary staff for delivering what she described as free, fair and credible elections despite tight deadlines, intense scrutiny and widespread misinformation.

She also applauded Malawians for maintaining peace before, during and after polling and the announcement of results. “Together, we demonstrated that it is possible to deliver credible elections while preserving peace and the sanctity of life,” she said.

Justice Mtalimanja concluded by reaffirming MEC’s appreciation of the EU’s professionalism and partnership, stating that the Commission will reflect thoroughly on the recommendations before issuing detailed responses. “We value and welcome your recommendations, and we thank you once again for your commitment to supporting credible elections in Malawi,” she said.