23/09/2025
Premature Congratulations:
A THREAT TO MALAWI'S DEMOCRACY AND STABILITY.
Malawi is still waiting for the official announcement of presidential results from the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC). Out of 36 district councils, only 24 have so far been officially declared, and the process is still ongoing. Yet, a letter circulating online, allegedly from the leadership of UTM, has already extended congratulations to Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for “winning” the election.
This development is deeply dangerous, misleading, and irresponsible.
WHY THIS IS WRONG TIMING
1. Results are not yet complete – With only 2 thirds of districts announced, it is impossible for anyone to conclusively know the winner. Malawi’s elections are determined by the entire nation’s votes, not a fraction of them. Any early endorsement is a direct contradiction of the official process.
2. It undermines MEC’s credibility – MEC is the only legally mandated body to declare results. Any attempt to pre-empt its role creates doubt, confusion, and mistrust among Malawians. It is effectively telling the people that their votes in the yet-to-be-announced districts don’t matter.
3. It pressures institutions – By prematurely endorsing a candidate, the letter places unnecessary political pressure on MEC and security agencies, potentially influencing or intimidating officials in the discharge of their lawful duties.
The Risk to National Security. History across Africa shows that premature declarations of victory are among the leading causes of post-election violence. When one side is told they have already won, they will reject any other outcome. When the final official results differ, supporters are mobilized to protest, and violence becomes almost inevitable.
For example:
• In Kenya (2007), conflicting claims of victory before final results fueled post-election chaos that left over 1,000 people dead.
• In Zimbabwe (2018), early victory claims led to street clashes that resulted in loss of life.
Malawi must not walk down the same path.
What This Letter Really Means
By rushing to congratulate Peter Mutharika before MEC concludes its work, this message:
• Raises the risk of one party rejecting any outcome except their “victory.”
• Signals disregard for the democratic process and the voice of millions of Malawians still waiting to be counted.
• Threatens national unity, as it creates unnecessary fear and tension among citizens.
A CALL FOR RESPONSIBILITY
All political parties, civil society, and citizens must stand firm:
• Only MEC has the authority to declare results.
• Premature endorsements must be condemned as they fuel instability.
• Malawi’s hard-earned democracy must not be sacrificed at the altar of political gamesmanship.
Let us remember: peaceful elections are not just about casting votes, but about respecting due process.
FINAL WORD
This congratulatory message is not just ill-timed—it is reckless. Malawi’s leaders and citizens must reject such attempts to hijack the process. Let us allow MEC to finish its work without fear or pressure.
Premature claims of victory are a recipe for chaos. Malawi deserves better—a peaceful, transparent, and credible election.
Written by Rooted News Network – Well Researched News
