24/05/2026
How Anabel Mtalimanja can be removed From MEC chairmanship
By Jones Gadama
The recent saga surrounding the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) under the leadership of Chairperson Anabel Mtalimanja has sparked intense debate about governance, constitutional independence, and accountability. Following the executive order directing MEC’s relocation from Lilongwe to Blantyre—a directive upheld by the courts—MEC’s refusal to comply has culminated in a crisis that threatens the institution’s operational integrity and public trust.
Anabel Mtalimanja has, through actions and inactions, exhibited serious misconduct and neglect of duty, warranting her removal from office through the constitutionally mandated procedures.
It calls on President Peter Mutharika to take decisive but legally sound steps to safeguard the Commission’s future and restore confidence in Malawi’s electoral governance.
Mtalimanja’s resistance to the relocation executive order, despite the courts dismissing MEC’s legal challenges on procedural grounds, has placed the Commission in a precarious position.
The refusal to vacate the Lilongwe premises after lease expiry, resulting in an illegal occupation, is more than a simple administrative misstep—it embodies a failure in leadership that risks the Commission’s constitutional mandate.
The consequences are grave: election materials and sensitive data face jeopardy without secure storage; MEC’s credibility suffers as it appears unwilling or unable to obey lawful directives; and the public’s trust in an institution meant to be impartial and effective is eroded.
From a legal standpoint, the Chairperson’s conduct can be framed as serious misconduct and neglect of duty under Section 5 of the Electoral Commission Act, read with Section 118 of the Malawi Constitution. Misconduct includes willful disobedience of lawful orders, neglect of responsibilities, and behavior that tarnishes the institution’s reputation.