The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has ruled out any possibility of political parties changing their running mates in the event of a presidential election re-run, even if new alliances are formed. MEC spokesperson Sangwani Mwafulirwa clarified that the law is explicit — once nominated, a running mate can only be replaced in cases of death, disqualification, or incapacitation.
Speaking today during a media training session on election reporting organised by Gazette Media for Bwaila Media Club members, Mwafulirwa explained that a re-run would only be triggered if no candidate secures the required 50% + 1 majority in the first round. He stressed that while alliances are allowed before a re-run, the original presidential tickets remain intact.
The ruling has sent quiet ripples through the political landscape, with analysts noting it could tighten the screws on opposition camps banking on last-minute running mate swaps to salvage voter appeal. Meanwhile, in the Chakwera camp, the mood remains buoyant. With the MCP leader’s campaign trail drawing record crowds and his running mate Vitumbiko Mumba energising the base, insiders believe the President is on course to seal victory outright in the first round — making any talk of a re-run purely academic.
