APM describes fresh elections ‘worst ever’

In a defiance that has characterised the last days of his tenure, outgoing President Peter Mutharika has described the fresh presidential election as the worst in Malawi history.

Speaking to journalists at Sanjika Palace in Blantyre last evening, Mutharika did not explicitly accept defeat, alleging that most of the results that were sent to Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) tally centre were not a true reflection of the wish of the people.

He claimed that there were no Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and United Democratic Front (UDF) monitors to report irregularities at some polling centres.

“Strangely, the Malawi Electoral Commission has dismissed our complaints because our monitors were not there to report irregularities,” said Mutharika.

“As we speak, many of our monitors are painfully nursing injuries in hospitals and at home. Many families are still recovering from the unbelievable horrors of this election,” added Mutharika who was accompanied by his running mate Atupele Muluzi.

Mutharika said Malawians should ask themselves whether the poll was ‘free, fair and credible’.

“Is this the same democracy we fought for and won in 1994? As I urge this nation to go into soul-searching and self-reflection, I ask all Malawians to move on peacefully. We are at the moment waiting for the Malawi Electoral Commission to announce the results of the election.

“Much as I find this election unacceptable, but for the sake of peace, and for the love of our country, which is larger than us all, I wish to ask all Malawians to be peaceful when the results are announced. It is only my sincere hope that we will unite to take this country forward instead of taking it backward,” he said.

Political analyst Henry Chingaipe said Mutharika is just under pressure to say something because what he has said does not add up.

“The issue to do with monitors was already disputed by the court in its judgment. The court said with or without monitors that cannot stop people from electing the President.

“Mutharika is also failing to substantiate his claims about people being beaten and those in the hospital. Where are those people? Which hospital are they? And why not report such case to police?” wondered Chingaipe.

After reading his statement, Mutharika did not give the media a chance to ask him questions, saying he was busy with other crucial issues.