MEC denies ex-minister Mzimba Hora DPP ticket

Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has asked former diplomat and ex-deputy Cabinet minister Henry Mumba to contest the parliamentary seat in Mzimba Hora Constituency as an independent candidate.

MEC’s decision follows the dilemma the governing Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) was found in regarding a candidate for the constituency after Mumba and Martha Mzomera Munthali submitted nomination papers as the party’s candidates.

However, DPP wrote MEC asking that Mumba’s candidature be withdrawn.

In a letter signed by MEC chief elections officer Sam Alfandika, the electoral body has asked Mumba to stand as an independent candidate if he wishes to contest. He was given two days from February 15 to submit his symbol.

“Kindly let us have your response promptly and not later than 17 February 2019,” reads the letter dated February 14.

DPP secretary general Grezelder Jeffrey said the party endorsed Munthali and that President Peter Mutharika also issued her a certificate confirming her candidature on DPP ticket.

Reacting to the matter, Mumba said he felt betrayed by the party.

He said: “I was nominated by the party to represent it.”

Mumba, however, hailed MEC for giving him a chance to stand as an independent. He said he has since submitted nomination papers as an independent candidate.

DPP replaced incumbent legislator for the constituency, Christopher Mzemera Ngwira, spouse to Martha, after the court recently declared him bankrupt. n