The Human Defenders Coalition (HRDC) has challenged the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to provide a detailed account of how the election management system procured from Smartmatic will be used in the September 16 general election.

A statement issued by HRDC chairperson Gift Trapence says they are concerned with the level of politically motivated violence and misinformation about the electoral management system.

It further says Malawians deserve issue-based campaigns, not chaos, insults and intimidation, adding that political party leaders need to adhere to the elections code of conduct that advocates peace and unity.

According to Trapence, they are in full support of the adoption of the Smartmatic system, but there is more that should be done.

"We are in full support of the adoption of the Smartmatic system, but there is a need to have a reformed, professional and independent MEC that will manage the polls with integrity," Trapence added.

MEC spokesperson Sangwani Mwafulirwa has, however, told Zodiak that they will continue to engage electoral stakeholders to ensure a free, fair and credible election.

Opposition political parties and some electoral stakeholders have been demanding a detailed account of the electoral management system procured from Smartmatic, casting doubt on its efficiency.