MEC shifts nomination papers presentation dates

Malawi Electoral Commission MEC has declared that presentation of nomination papers by candidates for fresh presidential elections will be held from May 6 to 7 2020 at Mount Soche Hotel in Blantyre.

This means that MEC has shifted the dates as the presentation was initially expected to take place from 23rd to 24th April.

Chief elections officer of MEC Sam Alufandika says in view of COVID-19 pandemic only 10 delegates including the candidate and running mate will be allowed entry into the hall.

Alfandika says all other preventive measures announced by Ministry of health will also be strictly observed.

“All candidates and political parties should stick to the time they will be allocated and inform supporters not to accompany them or hang around the venue,” advises Alfandika

The commission is encouraging candidates and the parties to present completed nomination papers to MEC secretariat for pre-inspection before presentation day.

Alfandika says this will ensure smooth and time saving nomination process.

Parliament set 2nd July as the polling date after an order that fresh presidential elections must be conducted within 150 days.

Last week the commission suspended voter registration after government announced a 21 day lockdown.

However, High court judge Kenyatta Nyirenda granted a 7 day injunction to Human Rights Defenders Coalition restraining the lockdown.