Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has once again suspended all the electoral activities and processes related to the preparations of Mwasa Ward by-election in Mangochi district.
This is the second time for the commission to suspend by-election in the ward this year alone.
The first suspension was done in August, 2023 citing several irregularities that marred the voter registration process.
According to MEC public notice released on Tuesday, the electoral body has ordered the suspension for the second time due to recent events that have marred the integrity of preparatory electoral process.
“We have received advice from the Attorney General emphasizing the importance of ensuring security conditions for the proper conduct of all electoral activities including voter registration, the need to address security conditions in Mwasa Ward and ensuring eligible voters are given unhindered opportunities to register and vote,” says the electoral body.
The press release which has been signed by MEC’s Chief Elections Officer, Andrew Mpesi, said the new date of holding the by-election in the ward will be announced after the electoral body resolves the current concerns.
The Commission has, therefore, said it will establish a comprehensive strategy to address voter registration issues in the ward.
“We will engage the National Registration Bureau, Malawi Police Service, the Judiciary, leaders of political parties and relevant Civil Society Organisations to address matters specific to the mandates and roles of these institutions,” reads the statement in part.
Mwasa Ward became vacant due to the demise of councilor, late Edna Jose who won on the United Democratic Front (UDF) ticket.
Reported By Mark Phiri
