Former President Dr. Joyce Banda, now the People’s Party (PP) presidential candidate, has formally submitted her nomination papers to the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) ahead of the September 16 elections.
The papers were presented today at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe before MEC Chairperson Justice Annabel Mtalimanja and fellow commissioners. Banda also signed the electoral code of conduct, pledging to uphold peaceful and lawful campaigning.
In a notable move, Banda named Khumbo Hastings Kachali, the Freedom Party president and her former vice president during her 2012–2014 administration, as her running mate. Describing their partnership as “a tried and proven pair,” Banda expressed confidence in their joint bid.
Justice Mtalimanja confirmed Banda had fulfilled all initial legal requirements, including securing the required nationwide supporting signatures. However, she emphasized that the nomination papers would undergo further scrutiny.
MEC also urged all candidates to adhere to constitutional provisions during the campaign period. “Any breach of the code of conduct will attract a fine of K5 million, and repeated violations may lead to disqualification,” Mtalimanja warned.
