By Joel Phiri

Mzimba, June 11, Mana:  Political aspirants in Mzimba have applauded the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) for organizing an interface meeting aimed at explaining electoral processes, saying the initiative would go a long way in helping ease challenges commonly associated with the nomination process.

In an interview after the meeting held on Wednesday, Alliance for Democracy (Aford) shadow Member of Parliament for Perekezi Constituency, Fikani Ulunji Nyirenda, said the meeting provided a valuable platform where MEC officials clearly outlined the dos and don’ts of the nomination process.

‘‘For instance, we have been told about paying for nomination fees in good time to avoid inconveniences associated with a rejected nomination when you submit late. When you are told to fill forms with registered voters to endorse your candidature and you delay the system may not give you another chance,’ said Nyirenda, who will be standing for a second time, having flopped in 2019.

Another aspirant, Enita Chima, who wants to contest as a councilor for Manyamula Ward in Solola Constituency, said being a first-time contender, she learnt a lot from the meeting.

Chima cited the regulation that every contestant should have a symbol representing their party or their candidature, as well as avoiding confrontational politics, as some of the things she learnt.

Speaking when opening the meeting, District Commissioner for M’mbelwa District Council Rodgers Newa said the objective of the meeting was to provide information to the candidates to ensure prospecting candidates and political parties are aware of their obligatory legal requirements, and prepare all prospecting individuals to participate in the nomination process if they so choose.

‘‘Misunderstandings and misinformation often arise due to lack of clarity on electoral procedures. Through these briefings, we aim to reduce confusion, prevent avoidable errors and empower you to participate confidently and correctly,” said Newa.

In a separate interview, District Elections Officer for Mzimba South, Chrispin Chakhumbira, said in the past there had been numerous anomalies that marred the nomination process such as aspirants failing to fill nomination forms correctly which resulted in some candidates being disqualified.

“This training we are conducting today for potential candidates from all political parties and independent candidates aims at enlightening them on the processes in elections and also clarifying all matters that they may need clarification on so that they don’t have issues with electoral processes,’’ said Chakhumbira.

Among others, the discussions centred on the nomination process, eligibility and timeline, correct filling of nomination forms, certification of persons with disabilities and the Electoral Code of Conduct for Political Parties.