That elections are the pillar of democratic governance is a hackneyed but fundamental notion that underpins the assessment of the quality of democracy.
Indeed, it is widely acknowledged that good electoral governance contributes to the democratic legitimacy of competitive elections.
Simply put, without elections there is no democracy. That is why it goes without saying that holding free, fair and credible elections is not an option for Malawi.
We are, therefore, encouraged by the avowals by chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) that the institution is committed to conducting the 2014 tripartite elections independently and impartially.
Coming from an electoral management body that has a chequered record in conducting elections, such statements, especially when turned into action, inspire confidence in citizens that democracy is not, after all, an alien and irrelevant idea.
Political independence ranks alongside bureaucratic efficiency as one of the foundational principles of electoral governance. There is no credible election in the absence of political independence.
So far, MEC’s conduct, as attested by other electoral stakeholders, has given us reason to believe that it is possible to hold credible elections in Malawi.
We hope this is only the beginning of better things to come from MEC as we head towards the tripartite elections.
Prepare athletes thoroughly
It is a fact that although not much can be shown for their sweat, local athletes consume a significant chunk of taxpayers’ money to participate in both local and international competitions.
This is why news that local associations have so far not embraced the importance of putting athletes on special diet, which results in high performance, is disheartening.
We are saying this because the huge amounts of money that is spent annually on ill-prepared athletes, who everyone knows will lose even before they set foot on the field, can as well be used in other priority areas such health, agriculture or education.
We strongly urge Sports Council to ensure associations enhance athletes’ performance by introducing special nutrition in camps so that Malawians begin to see results on the sporting field.
