The Democratic Progressive Party demands immediate training for political party technicians on Biometric Voter Verification Devices before the September 16 election. MacFord Somanje delivered this message at Kamuzu International Airport during the arrival of over 6,000 biometric units. The party representative praised electoral modernization efforts but warned that untrained operators could undermine the entire system. Without proper instruction for party IT specialists who guide polling monitors, the technology may face misuse or misunderstanding. Such failures would damage public confidence and weaken electoral integrity.
The request follows the second delivery of verification equipment as part of 15,200 total units expected by early August. Commissioner Richard Chapweteka confirmed the devices will work with manual registers to authenticate voters through fingerprint data. While actual voting remains manual, the DPP maintains that technology-based verification requires knowledgeable supervision from all participants. The party argues that comprehensive preparation rather than mere equipment acquisition ensures electoral credibility. Political leaders stress that inclusive training prevents Election Day confusion and disputes.
The request follows the second delivery of verification equipment as part of 15,200 total units expected by early August. Commissioner Richard Chapweteka confirmed the devices will work with manual registers to authenticate voters through fingerprint data. While actual voting remains manual, the DPP maintains that technology-based verification requires knowledgeable supervision from all participants. The party argues that comprehensive preparation rather than mere equipment acquisition ensures electoral credibility. Political leaders stress that inclusive training prevents Election Day confusion and disputes.
