MEC urges Chiefs to promote democracy in fresh elections

MEC urges Chiefs to promote democracy in fresh elections

Malawi Electoral Commission MEC has urged Chiefs in Thyolo to promote multiparty democracy during this year’s fresh presidential election.

MEC commissioner Ambassador Yahaya Mmadi said this on Monday during a meeting with chiefs in Sub Traditional Authority (ST/A) Mulenga to inform them of the commencement of voter registration exercise in the district.

Mmadi was responding to a concern the chiefs raised of threats to be dethroned if they allow different parties to campaign in their areas.

ST/A Mulenga said chiefs are at risk of losing positions during election period for allowing every political party to campaign in the communities.

“We end up being in bad books with the popular ones and even being sidelined on some initiatives hence in need of guidance on that from the commission,” says chief Mulenga

In his take, Mmadi said in the current system of government, no party should prohibit others to campaign even in areas it is popular.

“It was the wish of Malawians to adopt multiparty system of government which entails that people should be free to choose leaders they want and political parties should go anywhere to present their manifestos,” explains Mmadi

ST/A Mulenga promised to ensure that fresh presidential election is free, fair and competitive in his jurisdiction.

The second phase of voter registration is also under way in Rumphi, Likoma, Dowa, Lilongwe (district and city), Luchenza Municipality, Phalombe and Mulanje.

CATEGORIES
Share This