HRCC backs vote recount

The Human Rights Consultative Committee (HRCC) has rallied behind calls for a vote recount for the May 20 Tripartite Elections, describing the polls as a failed election whose credibility is at serious risk.

The grouping, a network of 97 local civil society organisations, said it is concerned about the ongoing political impasse, but applauded Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) for admitting that the process has been rocked by several irregularities.

In a statement co-signed by HRCC vice-chairperson Margret Ali and national coordinator Baldwin Chiyamwaka, the organisation says in light of the admission by MEC and complaints lodged by several stakeholders, the credibility of results depends on a recount.

“We urge MEC to listen to complaints from all aggrieved parties and use its internal audit and complaints mechanisms to transparently resolve all the complaints it has received. Secondly, we urge MEC not to desist from fulfilling its functions, duty and mandate under the guise of the controversy that has ensued following the irregularities in the electoral process,” reads the statement in part.

HRCC, which was also accredited as an election observer, further argues that a rerun should also be considered depending on MEC’s analysis of the situation.

Reads the statement: “MEC should carefully assess the feasibility of a recount. Where this may not be possible a rerun, particularly for the presidential candidates, should not be ruled out but be explored and considered as a final option for credible results of the 2014 Presidential Elections.”

The network also accused some stakeholders of meddling into MEC’s affairs, saying MEC has the mandate to declare the outcome of an election using whatever method is fit to carry out this noble duty.