Francis Kasaila resigns as MEC commissioner

Francis Kasaila has resigned as Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) commissioner with effect from 23rd April 2025.

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According to a public notice we have seen, signed by MEC’s Director of Media and Public Relations, Sangwani Mwafulirwa, Kasaila tendered his resignation on personal grounds.

Kasaila’s resignation comes after a period of service in which he played a critical role within the Commission, including serving as Chairperson of the Media, Civic and Voter Education Committee.

“Following the development, the commission is now composed of five members and the chairperson. The commission assures the public that this number remains within the legal threshold for a quorum, as the law requires the presence of not less than four commissioners for the conduct of official business,” the statement reads in part.

The notice further indicates that Kasaila’s resignation is in line with Section 4(8) of the Malawi Electoral Commission Act, which allows a commissioner to resign at any time by submitting a written notice to the President.

While MEC has not disclosed Kasaila’s next steps, sources indicate that he is preparing to contest for the parliamentary seat in Nsanje Central Constituency on a Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) ticket in the upcoming general elections.

Kasaila previously served as a Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister before his appointment to the Commission.