MALAWI: MCP Obtains Court Injunction Against MEC Relocation Order

By Smile Hamilton

The Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and several lawmakers affiliated with the party have obtained a court injunction challenging a directive by President Peter Mutharika ordering the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to relocate its headquarters from Lilongwe to Blantyre.

According to court documents, the claimants are also seeking a judicial determination on the decision by the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development not to renew the tenancy agreement for MEC offices in Lilongwe.

The legal action names Chief Secretary to the Government Justin Saidi and Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development Chimwemwe Chipungu as defendants.

The injunction restrains authorities from taking any further steps to implement the presidential executive order pending the court’s determination of the matter.

High Court Judge Kenyatta Nyirenda has granted leave for both judicial review and constitutional review proceedings, paving the way for the court to examine the legality and constitutionality of the decisions being challenged.

The development sets the stage for a legal battle over the future location of MEC’s headquarters, a matter that has attracted significant political attention amid preparations for future electoral processes.

The court is expected to hear arguments from all parties before making a final determination on the case.