Ex-DPM Masuku launches SADC Electoral Observation Mission in Malawi
By Thokozani Mazibuko
Former Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini, Themba N. Masuku, on Wednesday officially launched the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) to the forthcoming National and Provincial Elections of the Republic of Malawi.
The ceremony, held in Lilongwe, brought together members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of political parties, government officials, civil society organisations, and the media.
The mission was constituted in line with the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections, which seek to promote transparency, peace, and credibility during electoral processes in the region.
In his keynote address, Masuku emphasised that the deployment of the SEOM underlines SADC’s commitment to supporting Malawi’s democratic journey.
He highlighted that elections are a cornerstone of democracy and that regional solidarity ensures the credibility of such processes.
“The SADC Electoral Observation Mission is here to work hand-in-hand with Malawians in strengthening their democratic institutions. Our task is to observe and assess the conduct of the elections in line with SADC principles, the laws of Malawi, and international best practices,” said Masuku.
The mission, comprised of observers drawn from various SADC member states, will be deployed across Malawi’s regions and provinces. Their role will be to monitor pre-election activities, polling day procedures, and the post-election environment.
They will also engage with key stakeholders, including the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), political parties, and civil society, to gather insights on the readiness and fairness of the electoral process.
Masuku further urged all Malawians, particularly political leaders, to commit to peaceful campaigning, tolerance, and respect for the rule of law.
“The legitimacy of any election is not only determined by the counting of votes but also by the conduct of stakeholders before, during, and after the polls.
We appeal for calm, restraint, and responsible leadership as Malawians exercise their democratic right to choose their representatives,” he said.
The launch also included a briefing on SEOM’s observation methodology, which places emphasis on impartiality, transparency, and cooperation with both state and non-state actors.
Observers will document their findings, which will culminate in the release of a preliminary statement shortly after the elections, followed by a comprehensive final report.
Malawi is set to hold its National and Provincial Elections later this month, a crucial moment for the nation’s democratic trajectory. The elections will determine members of Parliament, provincial leadership, and lay the groundwork for the next political administration.
It should be noted that the presence of the SADC mission is expected to boost confidence in the process while reassuring both the Malawian public and the international community of the region’s commitment to democratic governance.
