MEC Accredit MANAD

Vote Mr. Michael Kakatera, Malawi Human Rights Commission, Lilongwe, requested MEC to explain the measures it has put in place for the minority people such as the physically challenged, blind, deaf, who are usually ignored to participate in elections?

Response: MEC has accredited several organization including federation of Disability Organizations in Malawi (FEDOMA) Malawi National Association of the Deaf (MANAD), Malawi Union of the Blind (MUB) and Visual Hearing Impairment Membership Association (VIHEMA) to help in conducting civic and voter education amongst their constituents.

The Commission has also put measures in place to ensure that participation in elections by those with challenges is not hampered. During registration they are not allowed to queue but are helped with priority. On the voting day we are planning for tactile ballots for those with visual impairment. For those with other physical challenges, we design our centres in a manner that does not hamper their access. Voting is done on ground which can be easily accessed by wheelchair and our ballot booths are adjustable which can work for those with physical challenges.