By Beni Bamusi

Thyolo, November 12, Mana: District Commissioner for Thyolo, Hudson Kuphanga, has commended the smooth commencement of phase two of the voter registration exercise in all centres across the district.

Speaking to Malawi News Agency (MANA) on Monday, Kuphanga, who is also chairperson for the District Elections Supervisory Team (DEST), expressed optimism about the turnout and the progress made so far.

“The turnout is impressive. I encourage everyone in Thyolo who is eligible to register in order to vote in the 2025 general elections,” said Kuphanga.

He assured the public that Thyolo District is prepared to manage the logistical demands of the exercise despite the current fuel challenges.

“We have secured 15,000 litres of diesel for the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) vehicles, ensuring smooth operations. A total of 82 vehicles have been deployed to cover all registration centres,” he said.

However, he acknowledged delays in deploying National Identity Biometric Registration Machines (NIBRM), which are crucial for registering individuals without IDs.

According to Kuphanga, by Saturday, deployment stood at 30 percent but has now reached 70 percent.

“We are optimistic that soon, everyone without an ID will have the opportunity to register,” he said.

Visits to several voter registration centres revealed a positive response from the public.

At Thyolo Prison Voter Registration Centre, Supervisor Ellina Bwanali, reported that 94 people registered on Saturday and 174 on Sunday.

“Unfortunately, 30 individuals, including inmates, could not register due to the absence of NRB machines. However, we have reported the issue and are hopeful that it will be resolved soon,” said Bwanali.

Similarly, Mpinji Registration Centre Supervisor, Swedi Kalowa noted a strong turnout, with 174 people registering on the first day and 196 on the second.

Kenneth Kane, 23, from Ndalama Village under Traditional Authority (TA) Nchilamwera, who came to register at Mpinji, urged fellow youths to register in their large numbers.

“I have registered to exercise my right to vote and have a say in the democratic governance of this country. I encourage all youths who have reached voting age to register. By doing so, we can influence the future of this nation,” Kane said.

The second phase of the voter registration exercise, which began on November 9 will run until November 22. It is being conducted in 11 districts and two cities nationwide.