Citizens led by Edward Kambanje and Oliver Nakoma have condemned the MCP for a proposed bill imposing a 75-year age limit for presidential candidates, claiming it undermines democracy. Allegations of K300 million allocated for bribery surfaced, as they warn MPs to reject the bill and call for unity against it amid economic challenges. The situation raises concerns ahead of the 2025 General Elections.
A coalition of concerned citizens, spearheaded by Edward Kambanje and Oliver Nakoma, has publicly criticized the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) for its proposed bill that aims to impose a 75-year age limit for presidential candidates. They assert that such a measure would inhibit political competition and undermine democratic principles in Malawi.
In their statement, the group claims to possess credible intelligence indicating that the government allocated K300 million from taxpayer funds for bribing stakeholders, including Members of Parliament, to support the bill. They describe the amendment to Section 80(6) of the Constitution as an affront to citizen participation in politics.
The citizens’ statement emphatically declares, “The proposed amendment to Section 80(6) of the Constitution of Malawi… is a direct attack on democracy.” They accuse MCP of engaging in unethical practices to ensure the bill’s passage and have vowed to mobilize national opposition against it.
The group has warned Members of Parliament against endorsing the bill, labeling it as “evil and undemocratic.” They express intent to raise public awareness and take to the streets if their efforts to halt the legislation fail, calling for accountability among MPs.
“We demand that Parliament focus on addressing the real issues affecting Malawians rather than being used as a tool for political persecution,” the group urges. They call for a united stand among Malawians to defend democracy amidst ongoing economic crises and challenges related to the electoral process ahead of the 2025 General Elections.
The proposed 75-year age limit for presidential candidates arises amid concerns about Malawi’s democratic integrity, particularly as the nation approaches its 2025 General Elections. This amendment attempts to alter Section 80(6) of the Constitution, sparking debate over democracy, political rights, and government accountability. The historical and ongoing struggle for participatory governance in Malawi is crucial to understanding the potential impact of such legislative initiatives on the political landscape.
The unfolding situation surrounding the MCP’s age limit bill has triggered significant public outcry, emphasizing the desire of many Malawians to protect their democratic rights. Citizens express concern that such amendments could restrict political engagement and divert focus from pressing economic issues. The determination of concerned groups to mobilize citizen action illustrates the potential for democratic resilience within Malawi’s political framework.
Original Source: malawi24.com
