Covid-19 guidelines, by-elections clash
The Public health guidelines that government had put in place to fight Covid-19 will face challenges as Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) is under obligation to hold by-election in seven constituencies and two wards.
Government limited gatherings to 50 people and in such gatherings social distance and wearing of masks are to be observed.
Despite the Covid-19 situation, MEC says it is proceeding with preparations for by-elections in the seven constituencies and two wards that are currently vacant.
Part of the electoral process involves campaigns that attract thousands of people. Voting process also attracts hundreds of people.
In an interview on Tuesday MEC spokesperson Sangwani Mwafulirwa said the electoral body plans to cover all the constituencies and the two wards at the same time.
The High Court on February 5 2021 ordered by-elections in three constituencies after nullifying results of the 2019 elections in the those constituencies. The court ordered to have the by-election held within 60 days.
“The commission is proceeding with preparations for the by-elections. The courts said they should be held within 60 days from the day of judgement. The Commission is planning to cover all the vacancies (seven constituencies and two wards) together,” said Mwafulirwa.
He revealed the budget for the elections is being worked on and MEC will engage Treasury for funding.
Asked how MEC will handle the Covid-19 restrictions, Mwafulirwa said there will be engagements with relevant stakeholders regarding the measures that can be put in place to ensure that poll workers and the electorate are protected.
Presidential Taskforce on Covid-19 chairperson Dr John Phuka asked for more time to consult on the matter.
University of Livingstonia political scientist George Phiri said holding of the by-elections is non-negotiable, saying the law is very clear on issues of by-elections. He said the constituency or ward is supposed to be filled within 60 days once it falls vacant.
He added that MEC needs to seek guidance on how to conduct the by-elections with the Covid-19 restrictions in place.
He said MEC should ensure that parties or candidates comply with the Covid-19 restrictions and those that violate such conditions should be penalised.
MEC will have to hold elections in seven constituencies and two wards that fell vacant. The constituencies include Nsanje Central, Nsanje North, Chikwawa East, Ntchisi North, Zomba Changalume, Lilongwe Msinja South and Karonga North West
The wards are Liviridzi Ward in Balaka West, and Chitakale Ward in Mulanje South.
