Running mates set for showdown on Zodiak

All presidential running mates in the May polls are set to meet for a public debate organised by private broadcaster Zodiak Broadcasting Station (ZBS).

The running mates, according to ZBS managing director Gospel Kazako, are expected to discuss the value they will bring to government should their political parties make it.

Kazako said the debate would be interesting and informative as governing People’s Party (PP) running mate Sosten Gwengwe, opposition DPP’s Saulos Chilima, UDF’s Dr Godfrey Chapola and MCP’s Richard Msowoya, among others, would come together to discuss what they have to offer if they assume office after May 20Tripartite Elections.

“We have talked to most of the running mates and 80 percent of all the 12 political parties contesting in the presidential race have confirmed attendance.

“This is a very important debate because running mates are equally crucial when Malawians have to make a decision on who to vote for. Running mates, if a misfortune happen, God forbid, one may become a Sate President,” Kazako said.

He said his station decided to give the running mates the opportunity to sell themselves and their political parties as they articulate their parties’ agenda and ideologies.

Kazako said ZBS is working on logistics and would within one week set a date.

Presidential candidates last week presented nomination papers to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC).

Other political parties expected to take part in the debate are running mates to Petra’s Kamuzu Chibambo, PPM’s Mark Katsonga Phiri, Chipani cha Pfuko’s Davis Katsonga, National Salvation Front’s James Nyondo, Tisintha Alliance’s George Nnensa, United Independent Party’s Helen Singh and Umodzi Party’s Professor John Chisi.