MEC bans use of private security by candidates

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has banned use of private security by candidates during presentation of nomination papers.

MEC Chairperson Dr. Jane Ansah announced the ban on Wednesday following the assault of its Stringer George Banda by alleged Security Personnel of the United Transformation Movement (UTM) Party at Comesa Hall.

Banda was among his fellow journalists who were covering the nomination papers presentation by the UTM torch bearer Saulos Chilima, when the assault team hauled him outside the Comesa Hall, while slapping him.

Speaking in an interview with the press Ansah expressed concern over continued assault of journalists in Malawi.

On his part UTM President Dr. Saulos Chilima condemned the assault.

Chilima further urged the police to investigate the matter and brought the perpetrator to book.