MLS warns parties against non submission of commissioners names

Malawi Law Society MLS says in the event that one of the political parties fails to submit the names it would be in contempt of court and this would make the Electoral Commission incapacitate to discharge its duties.

This comes a day before the expiry of the 7 days which the high court ordered DPP and MCP to submit names for the appointment of 4 new MEC commissioners following the nullification of three DPP commissioners’ appointment.

General Secretary of MLS Crispin Ngunde has asked elected leaders and authorities to adhere to rule of law in order to avoid such incidents saying “the situation would have been avoided if former president had followed the constitution on the selection of MEC commissioners.”

In his remarks, Justine Dzonzi of Justice Link says the party that fails to submit names should be dissolved for failure to adhere to the rule of law.

Meanwhile, Malawi Congress Party MCP says will re-submit Richard Chapweteka to president for the appointment of commissioner of Malawi Electoral Commission MEC.

Speaking in an interview with Radio Islam, MCP spokesperson, Morris Munthali says “the party will abide by the court order by re-submitting the name of Richard Chapweteka who was left out during the appointment of the current MEC commissioners by former president Peter Muthalika.”

In his remarks DPP spokesperson Brown Mpinganjira says the party will comply with the court order

Meanwhile, Malawi Electoral Commission says will not extend voter registration and verification for the 29 June by-elections which ends today.