The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding constitutional standards for electoral candidates, emphasizing several disqualifications under the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi.
MEC chairperson, Annabel Mtalimanja emphasized this during press briefing in Lilongwe today cited Section 80(6) of the Constitution that stipulates that individuals adjudged or declared to be of unsound mind are ineligible for nomination as President, Vice-President, or Member of Parliament.
She said this provision aims to ensure that elected officials possess the mental capacity to perform their duties effectively.
“The intersection of mental health and electoral participation in Malawi highlights the importance of mental well-being in political leadership.
“Section 80(7)(b) of the Constitution disqualifies individuals who are undischarged bankrupts from standing for election. This measure is intended to maintain public trust in the financial integrity of elected officials,” she said.
Mtalimanja said the concept of political bankruptcy has been discussed in the context of Malawi’s political landscape.
She said: “The Constitution prohibits individuals who owe allegiance to a foreign country from being nominated for presidential or parliamentary elections.”
She underscores the importance of national loyalty in holding public office.
These disqualifications are enshrined in the Constitution to uphold the integrity of Malawi’s electoral process.
The MEC’s adherence to these provisions ensures that candidates meet the constitutional requirements, thereby fostering a democratic environment where elected officials are fit to serve the nation.
