Why Did Malawi's President Recall Parliament to Amend Voting Law?
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Synopsis
In a crucial move for electoral inclusivity, Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera has called Parliament back into session to amend voting laws, ensuring that all citizens can vote, even those on duty. This proposal reflects a commitment to safeguarding democratic rights amidst an upcoming general election.
Key Takeaways
- Parliament reconvenes on August 5 for voting law amendments.
- Allows voting for citizens on duty on election day.
- General election set for September 16.
- Over 20 candidates, including former presidents, are competing.
- Chakwera's leadership demonstrates a commitment to democratic rights.
Lilongwe, July 27 (NationPress) The President of Malawi, Lazarus Chakwera, has issued a directive for the recently dissolved Parliament to reconvene on August 5 to revise the voting law. This amendment aims to ensure that all qualified citizens, including those assigned duties on election day, have the opportunity to exercise their right to vote.
On Wednesday, Parliament, which was in session from 2019 to 2025, was dissolved by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Catherine Gotani Hara, in accordance with constitutional regulations for an election year. Nonetheless, the Constitution grants the president the authority to recall Parliament before a general election when a constitutional crisis is perceived, as reported by Xinhua News Agency.
A government Gazette supplement dated Friday, signed by Chakwera, validated the decision to reconvene Parliament to deliberate on potential amendments to the Presidential, Parliamentary, and Local Government Elections Act.
A subsequent statement from the State House on Saturday provided additional details.
"President Chakwera has mandated an emergency session of Parliament on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, to amend the Presidential, Parliamentary, and Local Government Elections Act. This change will enable Malawians assigned to various electoral duties on election day to vote at their duty locations rather than their registered voting places," the statement conveyed.
The aim of the proposed amendment is to safeguard every Malawian's constitutional right to vote.
Malawi is set to conduct its general election on September 16, where citizens will elect their president, parliamentary representatives, and local government councillors.
Over 20 individuals, including the incumbent President Chakwera and former presidents Peter Mutharika and Joyce Banda, have announced their candidacy for the presidency.
Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera took office on June 28, 2020. Prior to his political career, he served as the President of the Malawi Assemblies of God from 1989 until his resignation on May 14, 2013, to run in the 2014 General Elections as the presidential candidate for the Malawi Congress Party.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize President Chakwera's proactive approach in ensuring voting accessibility. This amendment stands as a testament to the government's commitment to uphold democratic principles and the constitutional rights of all citizens, particularly in a crucial election year.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Parliament dissolved?
Parliament was dissolved in accordance with constitutional provisions for an election year.
When is the general election scheduled?
The general election is scheduled for September 16.
What changes are being proposed?
The proposed changes will allow citizens assigned to duties on election day to vote where they are posted.
Who can vote under the new proposal?
All eligible citizens, including those on duty, will be able to cast their votes.
What is the significance of this amendment?
This amendment aims to protect the voting rights of every Malawian, fostering inclusivity in the electoral process.
