From voting to accountability

Malawi has once again demonstrated its commitment to democratic governance through broad citizen participation in the recent elections, writes EAGLES INSTITUTE. The peaceful conduct of voters in the September 16 General Election signalled a deepening respect for constitutional rights and democratic processes. Yet, as the country moves beyond the ballot, attention shifts to a more demanding test of democracy: The post-election period.

Often overlooked, the months following an election are when accountability is either strengthened or allowed to erode. Seven months before the polls, Eagles Institute launched a civic initiative, titled Defending Freedom in an Election Year: Civic Action for Liberty in Malawi. With the elections concluded and a new governance cycle underway, the initiative has now entered its second phase to sustain civic engagement beyond the electoral moment.

Elections are a cornerstone of democracy, but they are not its culmination or an end in itself. In Malawi, post-election periods are often characterised by heightened public expectations, political contestation and, over time, a gradual decline in citizen engagement. When civic participation fades after voting ends, oversight weakens, and democratic institutions become more vulnerable to pressure.

[paywall]

“Democracy cannot be defended only during elections,” said Joan Tambala, executive director of Eagles Institute. “It requires informed citizens who remain engaged and willing to hold leaders accountable throughout the governance cycle.” The post-election period, therefore, presents both a challenge and an opportunity — to strengthen public trust, deepen democratic culture and reinforce institutional accountability. During the pre-election phase, Eagles Institute engaged youth, students and community members through liberty learning forums, civic education sessions and public dialogues.

[/paywall]