Dedza DEST urged to be professional ahead of 2025 polls

Director of Administration for Dedza District Council, Chris Salaniponi, has advised members of the District Elections Supervisory Team (DEST) to be professional in handling electoral matters in the district in light of the forthcoming 2025 general elections.

Salaniponi made the call Friday during a meeting between officials from the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) and DEST members where, among others, the two sides shared some developments that have taken place and also expectations from each other.

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He pointed out that members need not to be political partisans instead they need to leave their political affiliations aside when discharging their duties.

“The elections are a national event and the way we present ourselves will be a seed on the outcome of the polls. As DEST members, we are entrusted in defusing the pressure during the electoral period and not vice versa.

“On the other hand, let’s work together. Electoral processes can’t be done by one person. Let’s work as a team,” he said.

He commended MEC for organising what he termed as an insightful engagement adding the forum reminded members of their important roles during the elections while calling on members to use previous challenges as stepping stones on how they will improve in the next elections.

MEC Director of Electoral Services, Hastings Bota, said the electoral body appreciates unwavering commitment and support that DEST members provide before, during and after every election.

He said DEST, is one key stakeholder when it comes to the electoral body’s achievement of its mission, vision and mandate.

“You have been instrumental in managing the delegated electoral authority,” he said.