Kaliya’s candidacy hits snag as MEC rejects nomination papers

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) on Sunday rejected the nomination papers of independent presidential candidate Reverend Hardwick Kaliya, citing failure to meet key requirements.

Speaking at the Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC), MEC Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja said the nomination papers were incomplete, as Kaliya’s running mate had not signed the nomination form or statutory declaration, failed to provide identification documents, and had not consented to serve as running mate.

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“The Commission cannot accept incomplete submissions. Reverend Kaliya is therefore required to correct these shortcomings and resubmit his papers before the nomination period closes on July 30,” said Mtalimanja.

She reminded all presidential aspirants that nominations must fully comply with Malawi’s electoral laws and MEC guidelines.

Reverend Kaliya, who has endorsed Mayi Kagona as his running mate, has urged his supporters to remain calm, assuring them that the errors would be addressed before the deadline.

Kaliya previously withdrew from the 2020 presidential race after endorsing the Tonse Alliance, citing personal reasons. He now says he is fully committed to contesting in the upcoming polls.