By Burnett Munthali
Mzuzu was the scene of heightened civic action on Tuesday, 27th May 2025, as residents took part in public demonstrations demanding immediate reforms in the electoral system.
The protest attracted a significant crowd, with participants voicing concerns over the credibility and transparency of the country’s recent electoral processes.
Some of the demonstrators carried placards bearing strong and pointed messages.
Among them were signs that read, “No to Smartmatic” and “Annabelle Mtalimanja must resign.”
These statements reflected growing dissatisfaction with the involvement of Smartmatic, the company contracted to handle electoral technologies in Malawi.
Protesters accused the firm of playing a role in undermining the integrity of the election results.
The name of Annabelle Mtalimanja, a high-ranking official in the electoral commission, was at the center of the outrage.
Calls for her resignation were echoed loudly by the demonstrators, who blame her for allegedly failing to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process.
Organizers of the protest described the march as a peaceful exercise of democratic rights aimed at safeguarding Malawi’s young democracy.
They emphasized that the protest was non-partisan and rooted in genuine concerns about electoral justice and institutional accountability.
As the crowd moved through the streets of Mzuzu, it was clear that the message was not only directed at individuals but also at the broader system perceived to be failing the people.
Security forces monitored the demonstrations but did not interfere, allowing the event to proceed without incident.
The protesters vowed to continue voicing their concerns until meaningful reforms are implemented.
Their collective demand was simple yet powerful: a credible electoral process that reflects the true will of the Malawian people.
