Malawi Police Arrest Eight for Alleged Election Vote Tampering Amid Tight Presidential Race

Authorities in Malawi have arrested eight data entry clerks, including a returning officer, on allegations of manipulating vote tallies during the country's recent general election, raising tensions as official results remain pending. The arrests came after the Malawi Congress Party, led by incumbent President Lazarus Chakwera, lodged complaints about irregularities in vote counting, prompting calls for thorough investigations. Early results indicate former President Peter Mutharika is leading, but no official winner has been declared as the Malawi Electoral Commission continues to verify votes to prevent a repeat of the 2019 election annulment due to widespread fraud. The commission has until Wednesday to announce final results, with a candidate needing over 50% of the vote to avoid a runoff. The electoral process remains under intense scrutiny amid fears of further irregularities, reflecting Malawi's fragile political environment and economic challenges. Both major parties have filed complaints, underscoring the high stakes and public anxiety surrounding the election's outcome.