MEC speaks out on Njewa drama

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) says it has been stopped from accessing its warehouse at Njewa in Lilongwe after a court order was issued over unpaid rent, affecting access to one of its key storage facilities.

In a statement issued today MEC said the warehouse lease ended on March 31, 2026.

It said it started the process of renewing the lease before it expired and reached an agreement with the landlord.

However, the Commission said it could not sign the new lease because the government introduced spending controls in February 2026, which require approval before such agreements can be completed.

MEC said it is still waiting for that approval.

The Commission said it has been using the warehouse while waiting for government approval to sign the lease and pay the outstanding rent.

It added that it is working with the government and the landlord to resolve the matter as soon as possible.

MEC has assured the public that it remains committed to protecting public property and will continue carrying out its constitutional duties while the issue is being resolved.