National Initiative for Civic Education (Nice) Trust has expressed disappointment with parliamentary candidates for boycotting scheduled debates in two constituencies in Mchinji last week.
In Mchinji Central East on Saturday, only UTM Party candidate Theresa Mwale turned up for the debate at Chimteka Ground in Traditional Authority Simphasi, despite all four aspirants having confirmed attendance.
Mwale, who served as member of Parliament (MP) for Mchinji West Constituency between 2009 and 2014 under Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), used the opportunity to outline her priority areas.
The candidates who did not turn up are Judith Masamba of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Diana Raphael of DPP and Jephter Mwale of Malawi Congress Party (MCP).
A similar scenario played out in Mchinji North East where no candidate showed up for a debate scheduled at Kapiri, leaving voters frustrated.
The candidates are Dismas Chaponda of DPP, independent candidates Thyophord Chirwa and Alex Chitete as well as Anthony Masamba of MCP.
One of the prospective voters Jesse Santhe said she felt betrayed after arriving at the venue only to find no candidates.
“We came to listen to the people who want our votes, but they chose not to face us. This shows a lack of honesty among leaders,” she said.
In contrast, Mchinji North hosted a vibrant debate that attracted three of the five contenders.
Those present were Anna Kankhwende of DPP, independent candidates Aaron Maluwa and Emmanuel Mbewe. However, MCP shadow MP Rachel Zulu and Reuben Chisemphere of UTM did not show up.
A participant, Aness Phiri, thanked the aspirants for taking their time to outline what they will do once voted into office.
“They gave us a chance to see who really deserves our votes,” she said.
On his part, Nice district programmes officer Emmanuel Banda shared the frustration, describing the boycott as discouraging.
“All contestants were notified but later claimed ignorance on the day of the events. This is disrespectful to voters,” he said.
