In the countdown to Malawi’s highly anticipated September 16 general elections, UTM presidential candidate Dr. Dalitso Kabambe has stirred fresh controversy—with claims that the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) is ignoring opposition concerns. But a closer look reveals these accusations are not only flimsy—they’re potentially dangerous for the country’s fragile democracy.
Let’s be clear: Kabambe’s vague and unsubstantiated warnings about electoral unfairness reek more of political strategy than genuine grievance. By suggesting that the election may not be credible—even before ballots are cast—he is laying a risky foundation to discredit the outcome. It’s the oldest trick in the political playbook: cry foul before the whistle blows so that, if (or when) defeat comes, blame shifts from performance to process.
But this tactic isn’t just tired—it’s toxic.
Kabambe’s remarks, delivered after meeting the Malawi Peace and Unity Commission (MPUC), raised alarm bells. Without offering any specific examples or evidence of MEC’s supposed negligence, he vaguely hinted that violence could erupt if opposition concerns weren’t addressed. That’s not leadership. That’s fearmongering.
Malawians deserve better.
The truth is, MEC has demonstrated a consistent and open approach to stakeholder engagement, including with opposition parties. From concerns over voter roll integrity to questions around independence, MEC has actively created space for dialogue and transparency. Kabambe’s claims, absent of facts, appear more like a cushion for a soft landing should the polls not swing his way.
What’s at stake here isn’t just a single candidate’s electoral fortunes—it’s the credibility of Malawi’s democratic institutions. Irresponsible statements like these polarize communities, sow division, and threaten peace. At a time when the nation should be focusing on unity, progress, and meaningful debates about healthcare, jobs, and development, Kabambe’s smoke-and-mirrors politics is an unhelpful distraction.
Malawi has come too far to let reckless politics undo the democratic gains made in recent years. Elections are not war zones; they are sacred moments for national decision-making. And leaders—especially those who aspire to the presidency—must rise above theatrics and commit to strengthening, not weakening, the systems that uphold our democracy.
If Kabambe truly seeks to lead, he should try a novel approach: tell Malawians what he stands for, not what he fears. Misinformation and vague threats have no place on the campaign trail. This election should be about ideas, not imagined conspiracies.
Malawi deserves a politics of hope—not fear.
