By Prisca Promise Mashushu:
Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has assured Malawians of transparency and accountability during the presentation of nomination papers for the upcoming general elections.
MEC Chairperson, Justice Annabel Mtalimanja made the sentiments during a press briefing at Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) on Wednesday in Lilongwe.
She has urged all political parties to maintain peace and unity during their campaign period by avoiding disturbances and violence among people while preparing for the elections.
She has further explained that all aspiring candidates to review their nomination papers with the MEC beforehand to avoid last-minute disqualifications or delays that could interrupt the MEC smooth process of preparation and elections in general.
“MEC will allow only candidates who meet all requirements to be eligible to contest, and we will not accept incomplete or non-compliant submissions.
“MEC is also encouraging all aspiring candidates to be physically present during the nomination of the papers at the designated place so that all people can be able to see them while also maintaining order and time specifically given to them”, she added.
She has further explained that all counting of ballot papers will be done manually at the centres allocated before transferring them electronically.
“This process will ensure that there is authenticity and verification of the counted papers to avoid unnecessary issues of tipex and others that were previously observed during elections,” explained Mtalimanja.
The presentation of the nomination papers is expected to commence on the 24th of July and finish on Wednesday, the 30th of July.
