Press Statement
Lilongwe, 13 February, 2020
IMPUNITY, ARROGANCE WON’T DEVELOP MALAWI
Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) joined millions of well-meaning Malawians that were glued to their radios and television sets in following the proceedings of the Parliamentary Committee on Public Appointments (PAC) probe on the competence of the Electoral Commission (EC) Commissioners, and their ability to manage the election in 150 days. This follows the constitutional court ruling that nullified the May 21, 2019 Presidential Elections.
CDEDI is shocked to note the unacceptable levels of arrogance and impunity displayed by most of the commissioners during their appearance before the committee.
What is more disturbing is the total disregard for the respect of the laws that ensured the existence of the very institutions these authorities found the positions they are holding.
OUR OBSERVATION
From the proceedings, it is our conviction that the commissioners have displayed high level of selfishness, arrogance, and incompetence. The commissioners only considered remunerations, appointing authority and family interests, and included nothing kin their plans, for the ordinary people.
There is a total disregard for youth involvement and inclusion on the part of the appointing authority in the formation of the commission. It is a fact that 65 percent of the Malawi population comprises of the youth. There is no patriotism.
OUR RECOMMENDATIONS
The president, who in this case, is an interested party, be stripped off powers to appoint commissioners and that such powers should be given to an independent body.
After appointment, prospective commissioners should be subject to public scrutiny.
In making the appointments age and competence should be considered and deliberate efforts should be made to ensure the youth are also considered.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
CDEDI is a non partisan, nongovernmental organization that was established with a goal to have a well-informed and organized citizenry that can ably demand their social and economic rights at the same time hold duty bearers accountable for their actions.
Among many others CDEDI aims at sensitizing the masses on matters of national importance, inculcate the spirit of a peaceful coexistence among people of different ethnic, political and religious affiliations; provide civic education on people’s rights and responsibilities in economic independence and contribution towards national development and lobbying for the electoral law reforms.
SIGNED
SYLVESTER NAMIWA
ACTING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
0993462700
