from MAVHUTO BANDA in Lilongwe, Malawi
Malawi Bureau
LILONGWE, (CAJ News) – MAJOR mobile operator, Airtel Malawi, has approached the industry regulator to probe after some subscribers reportedly received unsolicited political campaign messages in the runup to today’s (Tuesday’s) general elections.
Such messages, which Airtel has distanced itself from, raised fears of a data breach as some prospective voters reportedly received text messages influencing them to vote for particular parties in the elections.
On the eve of the poll, Airtel confirmed some clients had received some unsought campaign messages and the operator had thus approached the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) for a probe.
The clients had expressed some discomfort and reported the issue to authorities.
“We have observed that some customers have recently received some unsolicited political campaign messages. We categorically state that these messages did not originate from Airtel,” Airtel stated.
“We are engaging the Regulatory Authority and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that all data protection and communication regulations are fully observed.”
Airtel stated it remained committed to safeguarding the integrity of the network and reiterated it does not create, endorse or distribute political content of any nature.
“The company is strictly non-partisan and continues to uphold political neutrality.”
Airtel maintained it placed the highest priority on consumer privacy and data protection, working to prevent any misuse of its communication platforms and reaffirming its commitment to transparency, accountability and customer protection.
“We will continue to ensure that our services are used responsibly, lawfully and to the best interest of all Malawians.”
More than 7,2 millions are registered to vote in Tuesday’s poll forecast to be tightly contested.
A lot is at stake, with the election coming at a time of the worst economic distress in years.
The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) is wary of social media misuse during the electoral process, describing it as one of the biggest risks facing the electoral process.
“False messages about polling times, station changes or voting requirements have potential to confuse voters and damage confidence in the elections,” Annabel Mtalimanja, MEC chairperson said.
On its part to ensure credibility of the electoral exercise, the commission has set up a free mobile phone application to allow registered voters to verify their names in the voters’ register and check their polling station.
Indian-owned Airtel and TNM have a duopoly in terms of market share.
The election is forecast to be a contest as the country of over 21 million people suffers economic and climate change crises.
Incumbent Lazarus Chakwera, seeks a second term after winning in 2020, However, corruption and economic problems have littered his presidency.
– CAJ News