By Gift Chiponde

Lilongwe, December 6, Mana: One of the Political and Social Advocates Silvester Ayuba James has criticized the newly released Afrobarometer survey, describing it as baseless and biased as it is not indicating the actual places where the survey was conducted.

In an interview with the Malawi News Agency, Ayuba emphasized the importance of conducting surveys transparently and involving individuals from all walks of life to ensure accurate representation of facts on the ground.

"It is imperative for such institutions to conduct surveys in places where voters make final decisions. If you ask tobacco farmers or any farmers across the country, you might get different responses depending on the locations where the questions are posed," Ayumba stated.

He acknowledged the right of individuals to conduct surveys but stressed the urgent need for those conducting surveys to provide concrete evidence of who was questioned to avoid confusing the public.

He pointed out that Afrobarometer had conducted a survey in 2014 projecting that former President Dr. Joyce Banda would win the presidential election, but the results turned out to be different.

"There is a need for Afrobarometer to diversify their approach to prevent confusion among Malawians," he added.

Ayuba also noted that the current administration has demonstrated achievements in various development sectors, which citizens can recognize, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive survey that represents the majority, not just the minority.

In response, Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Publicity Secretary Jessie Kabwira stated that while it is the right of every institution to conduct surveys of their choice, these organizations should reflect on the perspectives of actual voters rather than just the minority.

She highlighted the importance of acknowledging how the president has addressed the challenges Malawi has faced since taking office, issues such as COVID-19, Cyclone Freddy, floods, and assisting those affected by hunger and disasters.

"It is time for people to recognize the positive outcomes government has achieved in all districts across the country. As MCP our grassroots voters are intact and can see what government has accomplished," Kabwira stated.