Press Statement
Lilongwe, 27 February, 2020

DO THE NEEDFUL- ALL EYES ARE ON YOU PRESIDENT MUTHARIKA

The dice is cast; finally, Malawians know that on May 19, 2020 they are going to once again exercise their right to vote for a president of their choice through a legitimate, transparent, free and fair election. This follows nullification of the May 21, 2019 Presidential Elections by the Constitutional Court.

The Centre for Democracy and Economic Development Initiatives (CDEDI) would like to commend Speaker of National Assembly Catherine Gotani Hara and indeed the entire House for taking an affirmative action by ensuring that the court orders are effectively implemented within the set time frame.

However, CDEDI noted with regrets futile attempts by ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Members of Parliament (MPs) who threw in spanners in the process by trying to block the passing of the two bills that aimed at facilitating the smooth implementation of the 50 +1 in determining the winner in the presidential polls.

We find such a behavior not only retrogressive but also a clear and definite signs of blind loyalty where the MPs prioritized to protect their master in total disregard of the ordinary people who are the voters.

On the other hand, CDEDI would like to commend Mzimba West MP Hon Billy Kaunda as well as other independent MPs for listening to a call from their respective constituents and Malawians in general to vote in support of the bills after they voted NO on previous motions. Malawi needs leaders of Kaunda’s caliber.

CDEDI would also like to congratulate DPP followers for conducting peaceful demonstration in the streets of the capital Lilongwe. However, we are shocked to learn that they caused havoc at Kamuzu Palace main gate in protest for not getting their dues. We are particularly condemning an attack of Zodiak Broadcasting Corporation journalist Alinafe Mulamba.

CDEDI just like many peace loving Malawians is disturbed by reports that an attempt on the life of Mlamba and crew happened in full view of the police who are entrusted with the responsibility to protect lives and property of the citizens, worse still, a journalist on duty.

We, therefore, call upon Acting Inspector General of Police Duncan Mwapasa to indentify and discipline the police officers who were within the vicinity and also arrest the errant party ruffians who were very visible, clad in DPP regalia.

Now that the much awaited bills have been passed, we at CDEDI and indeed the world looks up to Mutharika to move with speed and assent to the bills.

It was refreshing to listen to Mutharika addressing his supporters, the President was in a campaign mood. He fired warning shots to his opponents to expect nothing but a landslide of about 50+20 in the forth coming fresh polls.

CDEDI therefore, does not expect Mutharika to develop a cold feet but assent to the bills as a sure way to demonstrate that he is geared to reclaim victory once more. But still listening to him, CDEDI is surprised as to why DPP supporters are demonstrating against the ruling when their leader is already geared and ready for victory? Does he want to waste our time? Who is fooling who here?

Mutharika and DPP need to be reminded that the current situation in the country is causing a lot of misery to poor Malawians including his party followers hence no need to play hide and seek on matters of national interest.

Deducing from Muthrika’s assertions, one also gets an impression that he is ready to stand on DPP ticket. Much as it is his constitutional right, we at CDEDI would like implore upon the DPP leader to rescind his decision and pave way for the new blood in the rank and file of the party.

CDEDI’s unsolicited advice is that the art of good dancing lies in knowing the right time to leave the stage.

APM, you have done your part it is now time for Herbert Chimulirenji, Kondwani Nankhumwa, Ben Phiri, Bright Msaka,Jappie Mhango, Mark Botomani and the new catch Autupele Muluzi.

Mutharika would join the Guinness books of history as a true Champion for the youth by leaving the stage when he is still wanted the case of late Nelson Mandela of South Africa who spent 27 years in prison fighting for freedom but only served five year term and retired.

BACKGROUND

CDEDI is a non partisan, nongovernmental organization that was established in a quest to attain 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

CDEDI INTERIM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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