MEC drivers demand unpaid election wages in Blantyre

Drivers hired by the Malawi Electoral Commission protested at Blantyre offices over unpaid wages from the September election. Samuel Malembo said officials promised 1.2 million kwacha per worker, but he received only 720,000 kwacha, with the remainder outstanding. Some colleagues got nothing while commission representatives claimed processing continues. The delays created hardship for families depending on earnings to cover debts and expenses.

Spokesperson Sangwani Mwafulirwa blamed incomplete paperwork and incorrect bank details for payment problems. He asked affected workers to verify information at district offices and pledged resolution of all claims. Drivers questioned the explanation and noted repeated administrative excuses for late compensation. The dispute raised concerns about financial management and relationships with temporary staff ahead of future votes.

Civil society groups urged better verification systems and communication protocols to prevent similar conflicts. Observers warned that the credibility issues could discourage contractors from participating in election operations. Workers continue pressing for full payment while hoping the commission honors commitments. The case exposed broader challenges in managing logistics personnel for national electoral processes across the country.