By Watipaso Mzungu
The Nation Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) Public Trust has expressed disapproval with reports about the sale, exchange, and unlawful snatching of voter registration certificates ahead of the September 2025 General Elections.
NICE Executive Director Gray Kalindekafe revealed in a statement last week that the just-ended three voter registration exercises were characterized by sale of voter certificates for goods such as soya pieces, soap and sugar.
Some unscrupulous individuals reportedly forcibly took these documents from registrants, said Kalindekafe.
“We unequivocally condemn these practices as they undermine the very foundation of our democracy and threaten the integrity of the upcoming 2025 elections,” reads the statement in part.
Kalindekafe warned that the buying and selling of voter registration certificates will compromise the legitimacy of election outcomes, leading to a scenario where elected officials may not accurately represent the will of the people.
He further feared that these actions will disenfranchise vulnerable populations, resulting in under-representation in the electoral process and further marginalizing the already disadvantaged Malawians.
“Engaging in these illicit activities violates several laws, including Section 24(1) of the Presidential, Parliamentary and Local Government Elections Act (PPLGE), which mandates that a voter registration certificate must be issued only to eligible individuals. Section 77 of the Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to vote. Selling or snatching voter certificates directly contravenes this constitutional right,” he said.
The NICE Chief Executive Officer added that the integrity of the 2025 elections is jeopardized when a considerable number of voters cannot participate due to these malpractices. This could lead to an election outcome that fails to reflect the true preferences and voice of the electorate.
He said normalizing such corrupt practices could set a dangerous precedent for future elections, further entrenching a culture of impunity and fraud within our political system.
Meanwhile, Kalindekafe has recommended that government bodies, political parties, civil society organizations and citizens should take immediate action to closely work together in safeguarding electoral integrity and ensure a fair democratic process.
He urged stakeholders to intensify public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the importance of safeguarding their voter registration certificates and thelegal ramifications of engaging in corrupt practices.
“In conclusion, we call upon all Malawians to uphold the sanctity -of our democratic processes by protecting their voter registration certificates. Let us work together to ensure that every eligible citizen can exercise their right to vote freely and fairly in the upcoming elections,” emphasized Kalindekafe.