BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Malawi’s presidential debates, set to take place in Lilongwe, have hit a snag as two major political parties, the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), have announced their decision to boycott the forums.
According to MCP spokesperson Jessie Kabwila, the party’s decision stems from a lack of transparency and inclusivity in the debate preparations.
“The party is therefore availing itself for any engagements to address its concerns regarding the planned Presidential Debates,” Kabwila stated.
The DPP, on the other hand, has outrightly rejected participation in the debates.
Party spokesperson Shadric Namalomba took to Facebook to convey the message, saying, “Kindly note that the DPP’s official position regarding participation in any presidential debates is that WE DONT.”
As a result, only three presidential candidates will participate in the debates: Atupele Muluzi of the United Democratic Front (UDF), Joyce Banda of the People’s Party (PP), and Dalitso Kabambe of the United Transformation Movement (UTM) Party.
The debates are scheduled for August 21, August 29, and September 4 at the Bingu International Convention Centre.
The decision to exclude other candidates was based on a set of eight criteria developed by the Debate Taskforce, which includes having successfully completed registration with the Malawi Electoral Commission, being represented in the recently dissolved Parliament, and demonstrating an active national campaign, among others.
The debates aim to provide a platform for open participatory democracy and hold elected officials accountable for their campaign promises. Despite the boycott, organizers are sticking to their plan, believing the debates will give voters a chance to scrutinize candidates before the September 16 polls.