Former Netball Association of Malawi (NAM) general secretary Carol Bapu is barred from contesting for the position of president by the association’s electoral body on the basis that she served two consecutive terms as general secretary (GS).
Bapu was set to face incumbent president Vitumbiko Gubuduza during the polls set for August 23 in Lilongwe.
In a statement signed by NAM elections body chairperson Zione Ntaba, a High Court of Malawi judge, the electoral body quoted Article 23.4 on eligibility.
Reads the statement: “Cognizant that the Netball Association of Malawi Constitution in Article 23.4 states that elected Executive Committee Members shall be elected under this Constitution for a term of four years, and not more than two consecutive terms.”
In an interview yesterday, Bapu, who got 16 nominations from NAM affiliates, said: “I have taken note of the list of nominees and I am currently reviewing the decision to bar my candidature.
“I will communicate my position in due course.”
She said her understanding of the article is that one cannot serve on the same position for more than two terms.
The development means that Gubuduza, who got nine nominations, could be ushered in unopposed.
In an interview yesterday, the NAM president said: “It is humbling to note that there is trust and confidence in the current leadership.
“I believe our performance speaks for itself and this would not have been possible if our sponsors and partners did not have confidence in the association.
“However, I hope to see more capable people taking up positions within the NAM executive.”
According to the communication from the electoral body on eligibility, only Bapu has failed to make the list.
Meanwhile, Malawi Queens legend Emmie Waya Tchongwe and one of the incumbent executive members Olive Msungama will face off for the position of vice-president.
Tchongwe received one nomination while Msungama has 21.
It will also be a two-horse race for the position of general secretary where the incumbent Yamikani Khungwa Kauma will face Mbumba Kalikokha. They got 14 and 10 nominations, respectively.
Zikubwelera Chakhaza and Janet Chiumia will tussle for the position of vice-general secretary, having received five and three nominations, in that order.
Cecilia Mtukule and Anastasia Kaphale are set to be elected unopposed for the positions of treasurer and vice-treasurer, respectively.
