Africa-Press – Malawi. The fifth day of presidential nomination submissions at Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe saw a mixed turnout, with only two out of five scheduled candidates successfully presenting their papers to the Malawi Electoral Commission (Mec).
Independent candidate Phunziro Mvula was the first to submit his nomination yesterday, accompanied by his running mate Cydreck Nkwanda.
In his address following the submission, Mvula said he is contesting to offer Malawians a different style of leadership that puts people ahead of politics.
“I have no political party because I want to remain independent in thought and action. I want to serve the country with a clean heart and give Malawians the leadership they deserve,” Mvula said.
He added that his campaign will focus on rebuilding the economy, addressing youth unemployment and improving public service delivery.
Later in the day, Frank Mwenifumbo, representing the National Development Party, successfully submitted his papers. His running mate is Chikondi Mpokosa.
Speaking to journalists, Mwenifumbo said his decision to contest stems from a desire to contribute to national development through issue-based leadership.
“We want to bring back dignity to public service. This is not a campaign of noise or personalities but one of vision, policy and results. Malawians deserve leadership that focuses on delivery,” Mwenifumbo said.
Mwenefumbo has previously announced he would not submit his papers following his decision to rally behind the Democratic Progressive Party before rescinding his decision.
SETBACK—Chibambo was turned away after Mec found his papers incompleteKamuzu Chibambo, leader of the People’s Transformation Party, was turned back after Mec found his nomination papers incomplete.
Mec Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja confirmed the development.
“Chibambo’s papers were not in order. There were gaps in documentation that do not meet the requirements. He will be allowed to resubmit once those issues are addressed,” Mtalimanja said.
Another candidate, Dalitso Chauluka of the People’s Progressive Movement, did not show up at the nomination venue and did not provide any explanation to Mec for his absence.
Similarly, David Mbewe, presidential candidate for the Liberation for Economic Freedom Party (LEFP), was also absent.
Mec said Mbewe had communicated that he was attending a funeral and was therefore unable to present his papers as scheduled.
Mtalimanja reminded all candidates that the nomination window remains open until Wednesday July 30 and urged those yet to submit their papers to do so within the legal timeframe.
“We are operating within a strict calendar. While we understand that certain circumstances may arise, we expect all presidential candidates to comply with the set deadline,” she said.
The nomination exercise, which commenced on July 24, is expected to close on Wednesday, with more candidates anticipated to submit their documents before the end of the process.
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