Electoral body sends its bosses on forced leave

The country’s Electoral body, Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has sent on forced leave its seven senior officers following reports of financial mismanagement.

The decision follows a resolution made in May this year by government officials and development partners.

They officials are Chief Elections Officer Willie Kalonga, His deputy Harris Potani, Director of Administration and Human Resources George Khaki and Director Khumbo Phiri, Procurement Manager Edingron Chilapondwa, Procurement Officer Chimwemwe Kamala and her assistance Sydney Ndembe.

According to a press release signed by MEC’s Chairperson of Finance and Administration Committee Linda Kunje, the forced leave is with effect from August, 24 2016.

“During a meeting in May 2016 Britain dismissed MEC’s explanation on how 15.4 million kwacha was spent between July 2012 and December 2014,” said Kunje.

Therefore a three member team had been established to investigate the matter.

It comprises Auditor general Stevenson Kamaphasa, Retired Malawi Supreme Court of Appeal Judge Duncan Tambala and Rex Harawa managing partner for AMG Global.

According to Kunje the commission had resolved to send them the seven senior officers forced leave in order to pave way for thorough investigations.

“Let me promise to inform the public on the outcome,” vowed Kunje.

Meanwhile, MEC has postponed Mchinji by-elections due to lack of funds.