The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) on Wednesday held a public briefing on nomination procedures for all aspiring candidates from various political parties in the country ahead of the 2025 general elections.
The essence of the engagement was to apprise them of the nomination requirements and procedures as the electoral body began distributing nomination forms on June 10.
In an interview on the sidelines of the session, MEC elections officer for the Salima district, Alinafe Chisenga, said:
“It is a very important session for the aspirants, as it has helped them to be able to undergo the nomination process. It has also helped them to be clear on the process of nomination.
According to Chisenga, aspiring candidates also presented their concerns about the election, and they have been assisted with responses.
“We are trying to assist the community to be able to find the best way forward in terms of addressing the issue of nomination. People have fears about the nomination.”
Chisenga said MEC was always open and willing to assist people seeking election-related information.
Aspiring candidates who spoke to CRS commended the commission for keeping them abreast of the nomination requirements.
Salima Central independent aspiring legislator James Manyetera said the move by the commission to engage them is plausible.
“We are happy because we are seeing an almost transparent process. As a candidate, I am happy, and I am almost seeing a road that is clear to a free and fair election,” he said.
Aspiring member of parliament for Salima Central West, Enock Phale, echoed the same sentiments, saying the exercise will reduce chances of their being turned away on nomination day.
“This engagement was very educative to all aspiring candidates, and we now know what is expected of us, and at the end of the day, if one finds him or herself disqualified, it will be very unfortunate after having been given the opportunity to know what will be required,” he said.
The session was conducted by Salima District Commissioner James Mwenda, who began by reading a letter from the Chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), Justice Annabel Mtalimanja.
The issuance process is expected to continue until June 22, 22,allowing candidates to officially enter the electoral race.
The session was attended by aspiring candidates from all political parties and individuals ahead of the 16 September elections this year.
(By Alinafe Nyanda)
