By Burnett Munthali
Leader of Opposition in Parliament, George Chaponda, has called for Members of Parliament to visit the National Food Reserve Agency (NFRA) warehouse to verify evidence he claims links the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) to election rigging through the National Registration Bureau (NRB).
Speaking in Parliament, Chaponda alleged that the evidence involves materials found at the NFRA warehouse, as well as records from the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC). He insisted that the nature of the evidence makes it impossible for him to present it in Parliament.
“The documents and evidence are located at the NFRA warehouse and MEC’s records department. This is why I am urging members to visit the warehouse to see the evidence for themselves,” Chaponda stated.
However, Second Deputy Speaker Aisha Adams rejected his request, insisting that Chaponda must present tangible evidence to Parliament rather than relying on claims. “It is Chaponda’s responsibility to present the evidence here in this House, not to direct members to external locations,” she said.
The debate has sparked heated discussions, with opposition MPs supporting Chaponda’s call, while government representatives dismissed the allegations as baseless.
The controversy comes amid heightened political tensions as the country prepares for the 2025 general elections. Both the NRB and MEC are yet to respond to the allegations, but analysts argue that such claims could undermine public confidence in the electoral process if left unresolved.
Chaponda has vowed to pursue the matter, stating that the evidence is crucial to exposing the alleged malpractice. Meanwhile, Speaker Catherine Gotani Hara is expected to provide guidance on the way forward regarding Chaponda’s demands.
