Jane answers Peter’s call
Former President Peter Mutharika has defended the choice of ex-Malawi Electoral Commission Chairperson Jane Ansah as his runningmate.
Speaking during submission of papers in Lilongwe, Mutharika emphasized the need for experienced leadership to restore stability in Malawi, which has been grappling with economic turmoil and political strife.
Mutharika, 85, highlighted Ansah’s impressive credentials, noting her tenure as a Justice of Appeal and her distinguished career as a lawyer.
Ansah, who oversaw the controversial 2019 elections, faced backlash when the results were overturned, leading to Mutharika’s defeat by current President Lazarus Chakwera in a fresh election a year later.
Mutharika reiterated his commitment to bringing about change in a country where the local currency has lost value and corruption remains rampant.
“I am the sole candidate with the necessary experience to bail out Malawi from its current challenges,” he declared, urging voters to prioritize stability and integrity.
Mutharika also condemned political violence, urging all parties to engage in peaceful campaigning as the nation prepares for another round of elections.
He faces off against a diverse array of candidates, including incumbent President Chakwera, former President Joyce Banda—the only female candidate in the race—and UTM’s Dalisto Kabambe.
The upcoming elections will also be shaped by the controversial 50+1 electoral law, which is expected to encourage alliances among parties as candidates vie for the needed majority.
Anabel Mtalimanja, Chairperson of the Malawi Electoral Commission, reported that over 7 million eligible voters will participate in the upcoming elections.
