Parties pen MEC on monitors

Some political parties in the country have requested Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to extend period of submission of names for party monitors from March 1 to April 15 2019.

In a letter dated February 21, 2019 jointly signed by representatives from ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), main opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP) former ruling People’s Party( PP) and United Democratic Front (UDF) as well as newly established UTM, the parties argue that time given is not adequate.

Reads the letter in part: “Political party poll monitors play an important role to ensure the credibility of the electoral process and its outcome but also represent the partie’s interests during election day at poling centres.”

 The letter adds that for parties to recruit, train and deploy the monitors across the country they need more time.

In an interview MEC media and public relations director Sangwani Mwafulirwa acknowledged receipt of the letter, saying the request will be looked into.