Former President To Contest In Elections

Former president Dr Joyce Banda has presented her nomination papers to Malawi Electoral Commission MEC with Dr Jerry Jana as her running mate.

Dr Banda who is also president of Peoples Party said will come back in government and improve people’s economic status.

Dr Banda said she will continue her economic recovery plan and has meanwhile denounced political violence.

Banda 68, has presented nomination papers after a failed electoral alliance with UTM, AFORD and Tikonze Peoples Movement.

Meanwhile, vice president Dr Saulos Chilima of UTM Party with his running mate Dr Michael Usi commonly known as Manganya has presented his nomination paper.

Speaking to reporters after the presentation of the papers Chilima was non committal on whether his party will partner with other parties apart from AFORD and Tikonze Peoples Movement.

Chilima has condemned the beating of a reporter by his supporters at COMESA hall

Commenting, Chancellor College based political analyst Enerst Thindwa said the decision by Chilima to pick Usi as his running mate is not surprising.

Thindwa also said the move might be a way of attracting votes in the Lomwe belt where DPP is a stronghold.

In the morning of Tuesday, president of Mbakuwaku Movement for Development MMD also presented his nomination papers.

Peter Kuwani who was flanked by his running mate Archibald Kalawang’oma said Malawi Electoral Commission should ensure that tripartite elections are free and fair.

Kuwani said these elections should cast in leadership which will provide opportunities for marginalized societies.

He urged other political leaders to promote peace as political terror scares away voters.

Kuwani added that the political landscape is changing hence the need to let the will of the people carry the day.

In her remarks Chairperson of Malawi Electoral Commission Justice Dr Jane Ansah urged Banda and Kuwani to abide by electoral code of conduct.

However other presidential candidates who were supposed to present their nomination papers today have failed to do so.