By-elections update: PP Candidate sent back in Blantyre

Presentation of nomination papers for the October 17th by –elections for Ndirande Makata Ward in Blantyre on Friday started with drama as People’s Party (PP) candidate, Mathews Shawa was sent back for arriving late.

Shawa was allocated one hour, from 8:30 to 9:30 as time to present his nomination papers but instead he arrived around 9:45, 15 minutes late.

Upon arrival at Ndirande Makata Primary School, Shawa was told by the Returning officer, Charles Chaima that his time was up.

“We are sorry you have to come back at 2:30 pm because your time is up,” Chaima told Shawa.

After the news, Shawa – who was not accompanied by any party supporter other than the driver- rushed to his Toyota Hilux shouting, “I will come again”
In an interview, Chaima told Mana that every candidate was allocated 60 minutes and messages were sent to them to keep time.

“I called Shawa this morning and his phone went unanswered and was later switched off. Therefore, we couldn’t allow him to register as that would have brought confusion since another candidate was on his way,” he explained.

Ndirande Makata ward is one of the centers where by-elections will take place, and four candidates representing Malawi Congress Party, PP, United Democratic Front and DPP will compete for the seat of councillor.

Meanwhile, Shawa was able to register later in the afternoon around 2pm.