In a bold repudiation of the party that has sent him to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) as its Commissioner, Francis Kasaila, has staunchly rubbished concerns that officials of his own party have been whining concerning 2025 elections management technology provided by Smartmatics. His remarks came in response to mounting concerns from within the opposition regarding the reliability and efficacy of the system.
Addressing media inquiries about the Smartmatics technology, Kasaila expressed confidence in its capabilities, pointing to its successful implementation in several countries, including Zambia and Kenya. “I do not see any problem with the system,” Kasaila asserted, emphasizing that the technology has previously facilitated smooth electoral processes in other jurisdictions.
This assertion stands in stark contrast to apprehensions voiced by several officials of his own party, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), who have been vocal in their criticism of the Smartmatics system during a series of press briefings. Their worries have focused on the potential for abuse of the technology and the implications for the integrity of the upcoming elections.
Party officials from the opposition DPP have questioned whether the electoral commission has adequately addressed the concerns about adopting new technology in the electoral process. Their calls for transparency and assurance regarding the technology’s reliability underscored a rift between the electoral commission’s stance and the reservations held by the DPP as an opposition party.
Kasaila’s remarks come across as a stinging reprimand against his party officials for unfounded fears and speculation mongering ahead of the general elections. Kasaila holds a distinguished political career, including tenure as a DPP Member of Parliament for Nsanje Central Constituency from 2009 to 2020 and multiple ministerial roles under the DPP government.
His portfolio includes significant positions such as Deputy Minister of Transport and Public Works; Deputy Minister of Local Government and Rural Development; Chairperson of Budget and Finance Committee of Parliament; Leader of the house for National Assembly; Minister of Transport and Public Works; Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; Minister of Labour, Youth, Sports and Manpower Development; Minister of Minister of Trade, Industry and Tourism; as well as Minister of Agriculture and Food Security.
