Malawi Electoral Commission Urges Youth Participation in 2025 Elections

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) is calling on the country's youth to actively participate in the upcoming 2025 general elections. In a public lecture at the University of Malawi's Great Hall in Zomba, MEC Chairperson Justice Dr. Chifundo Kachale emphasized the crucial role young people play in attaining social and political change in Malawi.

Why this matters: The active participation of youth in elections can significantly impact the country's political future and ensure that their voices are heard in the decision-making process. Moreover, youth engagement can help to prevent political violence and promote clean and active politics.

The lecture, titled "Unlocking the Potential of Youth for Future Leadership," highlighted the importance of youth engagement in the electoral process. Justice Dr. Kachale expressed puzzlement over the prevalence of voter apathy among the youth, who comprise about 52% of Malawi's population. "The youth are our chief stakeholders... you are youthful, energetic and full of intellectual abilities capable of playing a significant role in attaining best political results for aspired social and political change," he stated.

Research shows that youth in the Sub-Saharan region put less trust in public institutions compared to older citizens and are less likely to vote in political elections. Justice Dr. Kachale warned against politicians who capitalize on youth naivety, social vulnerability, and impatience, leading to political violence. He called on young people to be more innovative in the political process as the older generations lack the energy and zeal to drive change.

The public lecture was part of MEC's extensive stakeholder engagement program and was broadcast on radio, television, and Facebook, allowing listeners and viewers to participate through comments and questions. University of Malawi students and viewers asked about ways to engage youth in electoral processes and mechanisms to promote clean and active politics.

Professor Happy Kayuni, Executive Dean of the School of Law and Economic Governance, praised Justice Kachale for holding the lecture, noting that the university is a key institution in Malawi politics. Ulemu Mpekasambo, a third-year law student, urged the MEC to put proper mechanisms in place to mobilize young people and avoid voter apathy in the 2025 elections.

The MEC is preparing for tripartite elections scheduled for September 2025, with voter registration set to begin in September 2024. Local NGOs play a critical role in the electoral process, particularly in election observation and civic and voter education. Their participation is endorsed by regional and international human rights frameworks. However, these organizations face challenges in obtaining timely accreditation from the MEC and securing prompt financial support from development partners.

As Malawi gears up for the 2025 general elections, the Malawi Electoral Commission is intensifying efforts to engage youth and ensure their active participation in the democratic process. With young people comprising a significant portion of the population, their involvement will be key to shaping the country's political future. The MEC, along with local NGOs and development partners, must work together to address challenges and create an enabling environment for youth participation in the upcoming elections.

Key Takeaways

• Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) urges youth to participate in 2025 general elections.
• Youth engagement can prevent political violence and promote clean politics.
• 52% of Malawi's population is youth, but they often show voter apathy.
• MEC prepares for 2025 tripartite elections, with voter registration starting in 2024.
• Local NGOs play a critical role in election observation and civic education.