State of the Nation Address By President Peter Mutharika: TRANSFORMING OUR COUNTRY INTO A PROSPEROUS NATION WITH A SHARED VISION

TRANSFORMING OUR COUNTRY INTO A PROSPEROUS NATION WITH A SHARED VISION STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS by HIS EXCELLENCY PROF. ARTHUR PETER MUTHARIKA PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MALAWI on the occasion of THE STATE OPENING OF THE 45TH SESSION OF PARLIAMENT AND THE JULY-OCTOBER, 2014 PROVISIONAL BUDGET MEETING LILONGWE






.RIGHT HONOURABLE SAULOS KLAUS CHILIMA, VICE-PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MALAWI;


.THE SPEAKER OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY, RIGHT HONOURABLE RICHARD MSOWOYA, M.P.;


.YOUR LADYSHIP THE CHIEF JUSTICE, HONOURABLE ANASTASIA MSOSA SC;


.JUSTICES OF APPEAL AND JUDGES OF THE HIGH COURT;


.HONOURABLE DEPUTY SPEAKERS;


.HONOURABLE LEADER OF THE HOUSE;


.HONOURABLE GOODALL GONDWE, MINISTER OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT;


.HONOURABLE LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION;


.HONOURABLE MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT;


.LEADERS OF POLITICAL PARTIES REPRESENTED IN PARLIAMENT;


.YOUR EXCELLENCY MADAM THANDIWE DUMBUTCHENA, DEAN OF THE DIPLOMATIC CORPS AND HEADS OF DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS;


.MRS. HAWA NDILOWE, CHIEF SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNMENT;


.DISTINGUISHED INVITED GUESTS;


.LADIES AND GENTLEMEN.



INTRODUCTION
Mr. Speaker, Sir, I am pleased to be here this morning to preside over the official opening of the 45th Session of Parliament and Provisional Budget Meeting; and as per tradition during this period, deliver a statement on where we stand as a nation as well as our plans for the future.


This is an exciting meeting of Parliament for a number of reasons.


To begin with, it is the first meeting of Parliament since Malawians participated in the first ever tripartite elections that enabled them elect a President, Members of Parliament and Councillors on 20th May, 2014.


Secondly, Mr. Speaker, Sir, we will be celebrating our Golden Jubilee of independence on 6th July, 2014. As a nation, we have come a long way through thick and thin.


Although we have registered many successes, we have also encountered immense challenges. As a result, today, almost fifty years of independence, Malawi remains a least developed country.


This meeting, therefore, sets the stage for our Golden Jubilee as well as our development agenda for the next fifty years and beyond. We need, as a Nation, to realise that this is a befitting moment for us to look back and reflect on our successes and challenges so that we can reposition ourselves for a great future. I have no doubt that we will seize this moment to reassert ourselves and act with greater determination and vigour to achieve fundamental transformation of our country.



Mr. Speaker, Sir, I am fully aware that in the recent past, Malawians have expressed dissatisfaction with some of the governance and administrative systems and structures of our country.


I have heard the concerns and share the dissatisfaction. I, therefore, wish to promise Malawians that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) led Government is determined to put in place systems and structures that will promote good governance and transform the economy. In this regard, Mr. Speaker, Sir, I am proud and delighted to report that the DPP has a comprehensive manifesto which is consistent with our people’s aspirations.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, DPP is a party that dreams in colour. I realise,however, that our situation is such that dreaming alone is not enough. Actual progress will only come about through actions and not mere dreaming.


Government will, therefore, ensure that these dreams and aspirations are always translated into implementable and effective policies. We will continue from where we left in 2012 to fight poverty, under-development and economic and social injustices that are still prevalent in our society.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, the DPP-led Government still stands on the pillars of prosperity, justice and security. With the support of all Malawians, we will make Malawi a truly democratic and progressive nation, for this is the wish of the nation. This is the dream of our people.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, it is against this background that I have decided to title my Address Transforming Our Country into a Prosperous Nation with a Shared Vision.


But before I delve much into the speech, let me take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the Honourable Members of Parliament on your election to the august House. I specially recognise and salute those Honourable Members who are joining the House for the first time. I wish you the best. I am however disheartened to learn that the number of women Parliamentarians has reduced from forty three to thirty. This is very unfortunate and retrogressive to our efforts of achieving gender parity and equity in this country.


I also wish to warmly congratulate you, Mr. Speaker, Sir, as well as your two Deputies on being elected to your respective distinguished positions. I have no doubt that, together, you will faithfully and diligently discharge the duties expected of you.


Malawians expect this august House to serve them with honour, selflessness, honesty and purpose.


Let me at this juncture, call upon the Honourable Members on the Opposition side of the House to join hands with my Administration to run the affairs of the state in a spirit of cooperation, collaboration and complementarity.


I sincerely look forward to your unwavering support as we begin to implement our national agenda and fully engage in the transformation of our country. I regard your role as being vital to our democracy and the journey towards prosperity.


In fact,Mr Speaker, Sir, our manifesto speaks about a better Malawi, and that can only be achieved through collaboration and working together by putting the people of Malawi first. They matter the most, all of us are mere servants. I therefore call for a new style of leadership, Servant-Leadership.



Tripartite Elections
Mr. Speaker, Sir and Honourable Members of this august House, join me in congratulating all Malawians who took part in the first ever tripartite elections. Despite the challenges faced, the people of Malawi continued to observe peace, law
and order. We, as a people, should, therefore, be proud of the manner in which we conducted ourselves during such a crucial event in the history of our nation.



At this juncture, let me thank all those who contested in the elections. As I stated in my inaugural speech, I pledge to work with all political parties and independent members so that together, we can move our country forward. It is time to roll up
our sleeves and begin to transform our country.

I would like also to express my sincere gratitude and appreciation to our development partners and other stakeholders for the assistance that they rendered to this country throughout the whole electoral process. We do not take their support for granted.



GOOD GOVERNANCE
Mr. Speaker, Sir, the mission of the DPP-led Government is to instill self-confidence and a sense of socio-economic independence in Malawians, by creating an environment that is conducive to hard work, creating more sustainable jobs, redistributing incomes and increasing the supply of quality goods and services for the domestic and international markets.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, in order to achieve this mission, my Administration firmly believes in the principles of Good Governance which, among others, call for equitable allocation and distribution of public resources for all people, especially
the vulnerable groups. In this respect, we will establish a transparent, accountable and responsible Government in which decision-making and power-sharing are exercised
through the will of the people.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, we will encourage local participation in decision-making by mobilising and empowering the masses for socio-economic development in their respective areas. I,therefore, would like to urge all the newly elected councillors to
work hand-in-hand with the local people in designing and implementing programmes aimed at improving their standard of living.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, my Administration has noted, with great concern, that national priorities in this country keep changing to suit the political party in power. This has proved to be detrimental to our country’s development. To ensure that
development projects continue, regardless of the political party in power, my Administration will establish a Council with statutory powers to guide long-term national decision-making.



Economic Governance
Mr. Speaker Sir, our Government will give special importance to the design and implementation of sound macro-economic policies as a critical factor to support good governance. There will be an appropriate policy mix to enable the economy to
attain full recovery leading towards sustained growth and development.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, we will create an enabling environment to achieve four principal objectives:

(a) attaining macro-economic growth;

(b) allocating resources more efficiently;

(c) mobilizing domestic and foreign resources to support economic growth;and

(d) reduction of public expenditure.


This, Mr. Speaker, Sir, will address the current internal disequilibrium in our economy characterized by serious foreign exchange shortages, unsustainable budget deficits and mounting domestic debt service burdens.


More importantly, Mr. Speaker, Sir, my Administration will follow the laws governing Public Finance Management.



Corporate Governance
Mr. Speaker, Sir, we will put in place policies that will restore
the private sector confidence in the economy and consequently strengthen business enterprises to contribute more positively to the socio-economic development of this country.




Democratic Governance
Rule of Law
Mr. Speaker, Sir, my Administration recognises that adherence to the rule of law is necessary for the achievement of sustainable and inclusive economic growth and development of our country. In this respect, we will promote the supremacy
and respect for the Constitution of the Republic of Malawi.



We will further promote justice and a legal system that is accessible, affordable and people-centred.


Zero Tolerance to Corruption
Mr. Speaker, Sir, corruption is evil as it deprives the people of Malawi, particularly the poor, of their legitimate right to economic prosperity by diverting resources meant for socio-economic development into the pockets of a few greedy individuals. It also scares away potential investors.


My Administration will, therefore, maintain zero tolerance to corruption, fraud, theft and any other economic crime. There will be no sacred cows! Indeed, there will be no untouchables!


Mr. Speaker, Sir, some of the measures which my Administration will adopt to fight corruption include:




.prosecution of all public officers and private sector individuals involved in the theft, fraud and mismanagement of public resources;


.enhancing the capacity of governance institutions including the Auditor General’s Office, the Anti-Corruption Bureau, the Financial Intelligence Unit and the Public Accounts Committee;


.further strengthening the financial management systems and institutions for detection of fraud and theft; and


.non-interference in procurement by depoliticising the
procurement process.



Cashgate Scandal
Mr. Speaker, Sir, the recent revelations of the Cashgate Scandal in which unscrupulous individuals stole huge sums of money from Government coffers brought to light serious laxity in the adherence to laid down rules and regulations.


To this end, the DPP-led Government will put in place stringent measures aimed at preventing a recurrence. In particular,Government will enforce the existing rules and regulations so that the management of public finances should be done within
the existing policy and legal framework.


Going forward, Mr. Speaker, Sir, as one way of decisively dealing with the challenges of Cashgate and a means of addressing the weaknesses identified in the Forensic Audit Report by Baker Tilly of the United Kingdom, Government has formulated a comprehensive action plan on public finance and economic management.


It has been developed to ensure a shared vision and one plan for improving public finance management systems. The action plan looks at short, medium and long term measures which Government needs to implement to prevent another Cashgate and avoid theft of public funds. The action plan looks at all aspects of public finance and economic management, including accounting, internal controls, budgeting, procurement, disciplinary issues, administrative reforms and capacity building needs.



Human Rights
Mr. Speaker, Sir, the DPP-led Government is fully committed to the promotion and protection of human rights. Respect for human rights contributes to the creation of an enabling environment for people to realize their full potential in social, cultural, economic and political development.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, history has taught us that a nation with people who enjoy their full liberties will tremendously develop.


In this regard, my Administration will ensure that we adhere to the Bill of Rights enshrined in the Republican Constitution, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of the United Nations as well as all international human rights conventions to which
Malawi is a party.


We will also adopt a human rights based approach by, among other things, promoting equal opportunities and choices and recognizing each person’s inherent dignity and worth without discrimination.


Public Safety and Security
Mr. Speaker, Sir, my Administration is aware that recent global trends have posed a wide range of security threats to the Government and people of Malawi. These threats range from transnational organized crime, terrorist activities and natural disasters.


In this regard, we are committed to providing a safe and secure environment conducive to the social, cultural, economic and political development of our people.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, I am aware that sometimes our security institutions do not perform their duties effectively and efficiently due to resource constraints. To address the challenges that our security institutions encounter,Government will, among other things:


.enhance the capacity and professional competence of security institutions to enable them respond adequately to the security needs of the country;



.allow the Malawi Police Service and the Malawi Defence Force execute their mandates without political interference; and transform community policing into Citizen’s Police which will be better equipped and trained in crime prevention.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government is concerned with the high influx of illegal immigrants trekking into our country. To address this challenge, we will intensify day and night patrols in all strategic boundaries. Furthermore, we will put in place programmes that will dissuade traditional leaders and their subjects from
harbouring and aiding illegal immigrants.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government will also establish a National
Security Council which will provide oversight on matters of
national security.



International Relations
Mr. Speaker, Sir, the DPP-led Government believes in fostering
international relations that can ably strengthen Malawi’s drive towards a developmental state by embracing development diplomacy.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, while maximizing the country’s comparative advantages in line with the different but equal principle under the law of nations, we will pursue people-centered international relations that will translate into Malawi’s ability to meaningfully participate in international trade.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, our Government will ensure that the economy progresses towards self reliance and attracts primarily and progressively aid packages which support investment, productivity and long-term development projects.


Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, Sir, we will actively engage donors
in dialogue towards mutual goals that include embracing of home-grown policies, doing away with one-size-fits-all approaches, and adopting people-centred development
practices.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, we will establish and strengthen relations with development partners from the West, the East, North and South, alike. We will remain committed to the ideals of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the
Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the African Union (AU), the United Nations (UN) and other International Organisations where Malawi is a member.



Public Sector Management

The Civil Service
Mr. Speaker, Sir, as Honourable Members will agree, the success of any administration, and indeed, the ability of a government to efficiently deliver public services and enhance the welfare of its citizenry largely depends on the dedication
and professionalism of the public service. In this regard, we will reorganize the public service in a manner that will promote professionalism, integrity, technical competence and efficiency.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, the Malawi Civil Service was once renowned for its professionalism and dedication to duty. It is therefore, regrettable that recently there has been laxity, indiscipline and pre-occupation with selfish motives by a few individuals, which led to the plunder of public resources through Cashgate. It is
now becoming clearer as to what really happened; and therefore, Government will establish a corrupt-free Civil Service.


This will be done through full compliance with existing public financial management rules, regulations and practices so as to enhance the professionalism of the Civil Service. Our aim, Mr. Speaker, Sir, is to restore the Civil Service to its past glory.


We will make sure that the Civil Service is non-partisan and serves the Government of the day. We will further ensure that civil servants strictly adhere to the chain of command in financial management. We will also ensure that no civil servant is victimised because of change of Government.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, my Administration will walk the talk on priority setting in this country, and as a start, we will, among others, reduce:


.the number of ministerial portfolios, including Deputy Ministers, to 20;

.the budgetary allocation for the maintenance of state residences; and

.the number of foreign missions abroad.



Public Service Appointments
The DPP-led Government will reduce concentration of power in the presidency, especially as it relates to the appointment and removal of heads of Governance Institutions and Parastatals.


Public Service Remuneration
Mr. Speaker, Sir, since this country attained independence, the
objectives of implementing public sector reforms have been to strengthen and improve efficiency and effectiveness of all branches of Government.


Considering that the quality of public service delivery depends on the quality of the Civil Service, Mr. Speaker, Sir, my Administration will implement reforms aimed at improving the conditions of service and professionalism of our civil servants.


We will, therefore, ensure that the Civil Service is well-trained,professional, highly motivated, competent, corrupt-free and well remunerated. More importantly, recruitment and promotion will be purely based on merit and not on political affiliation.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, my Administration will establish a Public Service Remuneration Board, which will be responsible for the harmonization of pay in the public service. It will be mandated to remove the inequalities that exist in the system whereby employees doing similar work at similar grades are remunerated differently merely because they work for different departments and agencies of the Government.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, Section 8 of the Public Service Act states that “The basis for remuneration of public officers shall be equal pay for work of equal value and recognition for excellence in the performance of their duties as determined by an objective method of evaluation”.


We will, therefore, aim at achieving equal pay for equal work across the entire public service and put in place a mechanism for recognizing good performance.


From the lowest to highest grade, training will be a pre-requisite in order to continuously raise the bar of excellence in the Civil Service. In order to provide equal and quality services to our people irrespective of their location, all civil servants working in rural areas will be given incentives to encourage them to continue providing efficient services to rural communities.



MACRO-ECONOMIC POLICY REFORMS
Mr. Speaker, Sir, after 50 years of attaining our independence, our economy is still fragile and marred by so many challenges.


As a nation, we are still considered as one of the poorest countries in the world.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, experience has shown us that our development journey has been that of a vicious cycle, characterized by moments of brilliance, which have quickly been superseded by periods of stagnation.


Our economy is currently performing poorly due to problems that have emanated from fiscal slippages, among other factors.


Our development partners have already expressed grave concerns over our poor public finance management and economic governance, as evidenced by gross fiscal fraud, to the
extent that most of them have suspended their budget support to Malawi.


Government’s immediate task is, therefore, to reverse this gloomy and precarious trend. Government will, therefore, design and implement sound macroeconomic policy reforms that will transform the economy to attain full recovery and achieve sustained inclusive economic growth and development.


Government will also endeavour to allocate resources efficiently and create an enabling environment that allows the country to reduce non productive public expenditures and achieve positive and inclusive macro-economic growth, efficient
mobilisation and allocation of resources.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, our foreign exchange reserves are still far from being adequate. As a nation, we are still being faced with challenges to build up foreign exchange reserves to stabilise the exchange rate and inflation. These are ills of our economy that have to be addressed immediately.

It will be critical for my Administration to take stringent measures that will ensure that stability in macroeconomic indicators such as interest rates, inflation and exchange rates prevail in the economy.


To this end, Government will implement fiscal and monetary policy reforms aimed at reducing and eventually eliminating huge domestic borrowing, reducing balance-of-payments deficits and lowering interest rates in order to improve our domestic savings and investment financing.


We will implement a strict and disciplined fiscal policy on recurrent expenditures and management of donor funds, as provided by the law and international agreements.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, these efforts will restore private sector confidence in the economy.



2014/2015 Budget Framework
Mr. Speaker, Sir, after a careful review of what has been prepared so far, we find that the 2014/2015 Budget is far from being ready. The work that has been done so far is not well developed and the proposed budgetary allocations are either
illogical or conflicting with the DPP view points.

Moreover, there are a number of issues that need to be resolved before the budget can be finalized, including consultations with the general public, the academia, private sector, civil society organizations, the Cabinet, the International Monetary Fund
(IMF) and donors.


We also need to verify the stock of arrears before the budget is finalized. We therefore, need more time to analyze the various problems so that we can come up with a
budget that is more credible.


To this end, in accordance with Section 178 of the Malawi Constitution, the Minister of Finance, Economic Planning and Development will initially present a provisional budget for the period July-October, 2014.


We expect to present the 2014/2015 Budget in September, 2014 when outstanding
issues will have been resolved.


SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH

Agriculture and Food Security
Mr. Speaker, Sir, agriculture remains a key driver of our economy. About 85 percent of the country’s population is engaged in agricultural activities. The contribution of this sector to GDP is currently at 30 percent and brings in over 80
percent of the country’s export earnings. My Administration will, therefore, continue to prioritize the agriculture sector as a basis for maintaining sustainable livelihoods and inclusive economic growth.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government will continue to implement the Farm Input Subsidy Programme (FISP) to support maize production by subsistence maize farmers. We are, however, aware of the challenges faced in the implementation of the Programme. To address the challenges, Government will abolish the coupon system and put in place measures to ensure that the subsidized inputs are made available to subsistence maize farmers who deserve it.



Government will further institute reforms in the agricultural sector to support viable agro-processing industries, while at the same time increasing agriculture production through increased investments in agriculture extension, research, livestock production, horticulture, fish farming and irrigation agriculture.


To achieve this, Government will, among others:

.support rapid agricultural production by linking it with industry so as to ensure adequate and reliable supplies of raw materials to support our agro-processing
industries;


.promote horticulture farming, processing and marketing through the establishment of horticulture bulking groups in rural areas who will be provided with cold room storage facilities and processing equipment;


.promote fish farming among smallholder farmers by constructing fishponds and dams in rural areas;

.promote community participation in livestock breeding and multiplication; and

.accelerate the restructuring of ADMARC to carry out social and commercial functions separately with a view to making it a viable and competitive institution that will no
longer rely on Government subvention.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government is aware of the need to diversify
agriculture exports in order to increase the economy’s resilience to the impact of unstable prices in the global economy and to achieve sustained inclusive economic growth and development. In this regard, Government will promote:


.a “basket of commodities” that will initially include cotton, tobacco, sugar, tea, rice, paprika, cassava, groundnuts, sunflower and macademia nuts;


.cotton as a special crop through the establishment of an Integrated Cotton Textiles Industry that will eventually incorporate several industrial processes such as cotton
ginning, cotton spinning, cotton weaving, cotton fabric printing and garment manufacturing; and


.value addition to increase export earnings from tobacco through manufacturing of cigarettes, pipe tobacco, snuff, cigars and cigarillos.


Irrigation Development
Mr. Speaker, Sir, the irrigation sub sector contributes to the
economic growth of this country by supporting rain-fed agricultural production thereby leading to the attainment of both household and national food and income security.
Mr. Speaker, Sir, my Government will, in this respect, accelerate the implementation of the “Green Belt” Initiative.


The Green Belt will stretch from Karonga all the way to Nsanje and will entail irrigation of land of up to 20 kilometres from the water bodies.


Under the Initiative, crops such as rice, maize, millet, potatoes, cassava, beans, soya beans, wheat, lentils, sugarcane, cotton, groundnuts and sunflower will be grown for export and domestic consumption. To this effect, Government will provide
more rural farmers with treadle pumps, sprinklers, and motorized pumps.



Mining
Mr. Speaker, Sir, Malawi is richly endowed with high value mineral resources which constitute an important source of wealth for development and foreign exchange for Malawi. The contribution of this sector to the country’s GDP has risen from 17 percent in 2009 to 10 per cent currently; but has the potential to rise to 20 per cent by 2016 due to Malawi’s unique mineral potential.


Government will, therefore, prioritize the effective exploration of these resources.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government is committed to the promotion of the mining sector in the country. In this regard, we will endeavour to provide an enabling environment for attracting investments into the sector through the development of new
policy, legal and institutional frameworks that protect the long term interests of the country.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, currently, there are a number of foreign companies that are actively engaged in the exploration and evaluation of various minerals in different parts of the country, including rare earth metals, uranium, gold and titanium
bearing heavy mineral sands.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, I wish to inform this august House that Government, with support from the World Bank and the European Union started carrying out a country-wide airborne geophysical survey to identify areas with mineral potential and
provide readily available information to prospective investors in the sector.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government will, in the coming financial year,commence a Geological Mapping exercise of the whole country, with support from the French Government. This will lead to the production of new geological, mineral occurrence,
geochemical, metallogenic and seism-tectonic maps for our country.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government will also ensure that in future, mining contracts are properly negotiated to maximise benefits for the country. In this regard, Government will establish an independent contract negotiating unit in extractive resources.


Further, we will subscribe to the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI).



Tourism, Wildlife and Culture
Mr. Speaker, Sir, tourism, wildlife and culture have the potential to significantly contribute towards the country’s socio-economic development through increased foreign exchange earnings, employment creation and the development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).


Despite this, the country is unable to fully realise the potential of the sector owing to, among other things, inadequate infrastructure, non-aggressive promotion and marketing strategies and stiff competition from other attractive tourist
destinations globally.


In view of this, Government will identify and develop areas of tourist attraction where Malawi has a competitive advantage over other countries in the region. We will also enter into mutually benefiting partnerships with regional neighbours as well as establish recreational centres in major cities and towns of Malawi.


Government will also develop the Bingu International Conference Centre (BICC) into an office and tourist park.


Industry, Trade and Private Sector Development
Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government recognizes the important role the private sector plays as an engine for economic growth and a source of direct revenue and employment. However, the business environment in Malawi has, in recent years deteriorated due to some macroeconomic, security and structural challenges. This has led to several economic problems such as low volume of foreign direct investments, low
industrial output and unsustainable structural trade deficit,among several others.


In view of this, Government will strive to address these challenges by carrying out some regulatory and institutional reforms aimed at addressing constraints affecting enterprise development in the country. We will improve Malawi’s standing
on the Ease of Doing Business Index so as to make Malawi a better investment destination.



We will also continue to implement the National Export Strategy which was launched in December, 2012, and will be implemented up to 2018. The Strategy provides a road map for developing Malawi’s productive base to allow for both export competitiveness and economic empowerment. Government is determined to double exports in the next five years.


In addition, Government will:

.facilitate the promotion of quality in local products and promote the Best-Buy-Malawian campaign;

.empower Malawians to venture into tangible businesses through deliberate economic empowerment strategies;


.support Malawians to enter into joint ventures with foreign investors;


.establish a “one-stop” investment centre to promote and encourage increased investment in the productive sectors especially in agriculture, mining, manufacturing
and tourism; and

.strengthen and develop viable financial institutions that will undertake trade financing so that every product made in Malawi finds a market either locally or abroad.




Natural Resources and Environmental Management
Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government recognizes that conservation and protection of the environment and natural resources is important in promoting sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction.



In view of the challenges that natural resources are facing in Malawi due to competing needs of a growing population, industrial development, physical infrastructure and wildlife, Government will:

.continue to develop measures aimed at promoting cleaner energy practices that will help to protect, conserve and restore natural resources and the environment;

.cooperate with neighbouring countries to combat pollution and illegal dumping of toxic wastes;

.cooperate with international and regional institutions so as to develop more effective programmes for the management of natural resources;


.continue to comply with local, regional and international instruments in the management, preservation and protection of natural resources and the environment;

.intensify reforestation programmes by promoting the planting of one tree per year by each citizen for the next five years at the end of which Malawi will have at least 50
million new trees.



Employment and Labour
Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government is concerned with soaring levels of unemployment in Malawi. My Administration will, therefore, implement a carefully selected mix of economic, fiscal, monetary, trade and investment policies in order to promote the creation of productive and decent employment.



Investments in the productive sector of the economy will continue to be prioritized as the basis for creating new jobs.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government will encourage self-employment through the creation and empowerment of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, my Administration has elevated the Ministry of Labour to a key ministry because we believe it can play a critical role in the creation of decent jobs in the country.


It is therefore, critical that the Ministry of Labour takes the lead in the planning and creation of new jobs to enable the education and training sector respond with appropriate skills development in order to meet human resource requirements in
both the public and private sectors.



Integrated Rural Development

Mr. Speaker, Sir, a few years ago, the DPP-led Government embarked on the creation of new rural growth centres with facilities that are usually available in urban centres including tarred roads, piped water, electricity, banks, post offices,
hospitals, secondary schools and trading centres, to facilitate rural development in the country. Under the programme, many Malawians in rural areas have been given the opportunity to access better information, education and grow their businesses.



Mr. Speaker, Sir, my Administration will, therefore, continue to create new rural growth centres and rural based enterprises, develop and strengthen rural co-operatives and facilitate the establishment of rural factories to spearhead rural
development.



INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT
Mr. Speaker, Sir, infrastructure development contributes to the realization of sustainable economic development for Malawi.


Between 2004 and 2012, the DPP-led Government initiated and launched key infrastructure development projects which include:

a. the Parliament Building,

b. the President Hotel,

c. the Bingu International Conference Centre,

d. the Presidential Villas,

e. the Karonga-Chitipa road,

f.the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST),

g. the National Stadium and the Kapichila Power Station.



Energy
Mr. Speaker, Sir, availability of reliable, sustainable and affordable energy, whether in the form of electricity, liquid fuels or biomass, is a necessary precondition for economic growth, social development and for the survival of all human societies.


In recognition of this fundamental link to economic growth, social development and human survival, Government is committed to the search for alternative sustainable energy sources and initiating energy projects that are cost effective and centred on the priority needs of the people and investors.


We will, therefore, encourage Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in the energy sector and:

.introduce viable alternative sources of energy such as solar, wind and biogas;

.provide new incentives and opportunities to people in the rural areas to use electricity while growing more trees;

.enhance efficiency of the services of the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) by separating its functions into electricity production, distribution and
marketing which will be run by autonomous institutions; and

.encourage private sector players to invest in the energy sector.


Transport Infrastructure
Mr. Speaker, Sir, good transport infrastructure is vital for our
development as it eases mobility of people and carriage of goods from one place to another. Government will therefore, give special attention to all transport sector initiatives as a catalyst for agricultural development, industrialisation, tourism and trade.


Road Transport
On road transport infrastructure, Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government is committed to the resuscitation and completion of construction of a number of road projects that include:

.Mzimba-Mzalangwe Road, Mzuzu-Nkhata Bay Road,Jenda-Embangweni-Edingeni Road, and Mzuzu city roads in the Northern Region;

.Lilongwe Old Airport, Kasiya-Santhe Road, Lumbadzi-Dowa, Chezi Road, Dzaleka-Ntchisi,
Malomo Road and Lilongwe city roads in the Central Region, and;

.Zomba-Jali, Phalombe Road, Thyolo-Thekerani, Muona0-Bangula Road and Blantyre city roads, including the Chipembere Highway in the Southern Region.


Furthermore, Government will promote the construction of a new and comprehensive network of rural access roads and trunk roads to serve rural areas; and upgrading, maintaining and repairing of roads and bridges across the country.


Water Transport
Mr. Speaker, Sir, on water transport, Government will operationalise the Nsanje World Inland Port once the feasibility study of the Shire-Zambezi Waterway Project is completed. The opening of the Port will cut transportation costs of imports and
exports by 60 percent. It will also support national development programmes and promote inter-state links with Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe and the rest of the world.


Rail Transport
Mr. Speaker, Sir, under the rail transport sub-sector, Government will soon embark on the rehabilitation of existing rail lines and develop new railway networks for integration with regional networks. We will harmonise the railway policy,
administration practices and procedures to ensure that railway networks are compatible with the other modes of transport.


Air Transport
Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government is poised to develop the air transport sub-sector. Government will, among other developments, continue upgrading and maintaining Kamuzu and Chileka International Airports; and construct international
airports in Mangochi, Nsanje, Mzuzu and Karonga.


Water Development
Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government recognises that water development and the provision of clean and potable water is key to the socio-economic development of the country.


Government will therefore ensure that clean and potable water is available to all Malawians in both urban and rural areas. Government will also construct five multipurpose dams across the country to make water resources readily available for
multiple usage.


Information and Communication
Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government is aware that well developed information and communication infrastructure is essential to the development of the country. In this respect, Government will ensure that affordable and quality communication services
are available countrywide. My Administration will, therefore, ensure that our ICT infrastructure is modern and conforms to international standards.



Land
Mr. Speaker, Sir, land is an important factor of production which must be prudently utilised. However, Government is aware that the land sector faces several challenges, including high demand for land owing to rapid population growth; high rate of urbanisation; poor land practices; and insufficient
public awareness on land related laws.


My Administration will, therefore, among other things:

.advocate for the enactment of all land-related Bills that were submitted to Parliament;

.improve land management and use for national development;

.undertake a land profiling study of the whole country in order to identify availability of land for various uses; and

.conduct comprehensive public awareness campaigns on existing land laws.


Housing
Mr. Speaker, Sir, every Malawian citizen has the right to decent housing. In this regard, my Administration will subsidize prices of iron sheets and cement so that people can afford to build their own houses. We will also encourage construction of low-cost, durable and habitable housing units by Government
as well as the private sector to be sold to the people of Malawi who can afford.



Furthermore, the Malawi Housing Corporation will be organised to directly assist poor individuals to acquire low-interest loans from building societies, commercial banks and
other lending institutions. There will be a more vigorous policy for rehabilitation, development and maintenance of all Government houses and buildings.



SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Public Health
Mr. Speaker, Sir, the public health sector is very important in the social and economic development of our country. However, as you might be aware, the health delivery system has, in the past few years, faced enormous challenges including non-availability of essential drugs, medical supplies and facilities.


My Administration will, therefore, improve the health sector to ensure efficient and effective delivery of health services in the country. In this regard, Government will:


.ensure that all districts in Malawi have adequate medical facilities, including primary health care within a reasonable walking distance from people’s homes;


.end critical shortages of staff, medicine and drugs in all hospitals and clinics across the country;

.introduce new mobile medical facilities in the rural areas;

.promote new research in medical science and technology in public universities and other research laboratories so that medicine and treatment of patients conform to
international standards; and

.intensify programmes aimed at managing HIV and AIDS and preventing its further spread.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, for the first time, Government will introduce a Health Insurance Scheme for all public servants while exploring possibilities of health insurance for all Malawians.


Education and Human Development
Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government recognises the role that education plays in fostering innovation and creativity.


However, education standards in the country have plummeted due to a number of factors, including inadequate teaching and learning materials, insufficient classroom blocks and a high pupil-teacher ratio.


To address these challenges, Government will, among other things:

.provide adequate teaching and learning materials in all public schools;

.construct and rehabilitate school blocks and girls hostels;

.promote learning of science, technology and technical subjects in our schools;

.provide computer laboratories in all public secondary schools; and

.revise the terms and conditions of service for teachers to make the profession attractive and competitive.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, with regard to human capital development Government will:

.design basic education in a manner that it produces youth who are able to engage in trade, business, production and self employment;

.create a Special Child and Youth Rehabilitation Fund to enable children and youth from impoverished families have access to vocational and technical training that
equips them to become self reliant and entrepreneurs;and

.introduce innovative community colleges that will make use of existing structures in all the districts to provide practical knowledge and skills relevant to our economy
and for self-employment.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, the DPP-led Government will fulfill its promise on new universities and colleges. In addition, Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government will, in the next five years add 10,000 new students to the Polytechnic, Mzuzu University, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Chancellor College and various Technical, Entrepreneurial, Vocational, Education and Training (TEVET) Programmes.


Out of the 10,000 students, 6,000 students will pursue degree programmes in mining, geology, mineral processing, metallurgy, electronic engineering, telecommunications,
construction technology, bio-medics, education, tourism, just to mention a few; while 4,000 rural youths will pursue various TEVET programmes.


Youth Development
Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government recognises the importance of the youth in national development. In this respect, Government will strive to effectively harness the potential of the youth and equip them with knowledge and skills necessary for their full participation in the social, cultural, economic and political development of the country.


Specifically, the youth will be empowered through the following initiatives:

.establishment of a National Youth Development Service (NYDS) to develop skills for the youth to enable them to be self-reliant;

.empowerment of the youth to articulate their own needs through the formation of area, district and national youth organizations;

.establishment of new vocational and business training centres for vendors; and

.creation of new opportunities for soft loans to enable the youth to start their own businesses.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, these initiatives will encourage our youth to develop a mentality towards non-white collar jobs and be prepared for self-employment and entrepreneurship.


Science and Technology
Mr. Speaker, Sir, the DDP-led Government is aware that there has not been a deliberate policy for developing science and technology for macroeconomic growth in our country. We will therefore give very high priority to locally-based research programmes and adaptation and utilization of science and technology specifically designed to convert our agricultural primary commodities, minerals and other natural resources into new wealth.



Women and Development
Mr. Speaker, Sir, the DPP-led Government is committed to gender parity, women empowerment and upholding of women’s rights as a prerequisite to poverty reduction and sustainable development.


However, Government is concerned with the continued marginalisation and under-representation of women in our development process despite numerous efforts being made to uplift their status and improve their representation in the decision making positions of our country.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, my Administration is, therefore, determined to promote the status of women through affirmative action, empowerment initiatives and skills development.


Persons with Disabilities
Mr. Speaker, Sir, I wish to re-affirm Government’s commitment to promote the quality of life of persons with disabilities and ensure that they fully participate in the social, cultural, economic and political development of the country. In this
regard, my Administration will:


.remove all forms of discrimination against people with disabilities, both in the public and private sector, in order to promote their right to social protection to enable them benefit from economic growth, development and prosperity; and

.expedite the finalisation of the Disability Policy to ensure effective implementation of the Disability Act.


The Elderly
Mr. Speaker, Sir, Government considers the elderly as important members of our society who deserve special attention. Government will, therefore, introduce a new culture to enable the elderly feel useful and appreciated and be able to
impart their accumulated wealth of knowledge and experiences, specifically to younger generations and society in general, so as to preserve our tradition and heritage.

Further, my Administration will continue to adopt special measures to provide the elderly with adequate medical facilities, clothing, food and other forms of social support within their own communities.


Media, Civil Society Organizations and Non-Governmental Organisations
Mr. Speaker, Sir, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and the Media play an important role in the economic and social development of our country.


In recognition of their role, Government will endeavour to motivate the CSOs and NGOs to meaningfully complement Government’s work. To this end, Government will:

.review the NGO law to facilitate, and not stifle, their contribution in the development of the country;

.expedite the process to enact the Access to Information Bill into law;

.ensure that Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) and the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) are professional and report to Parliament annually as required by law; and

.continue to create a conducive environment for freedom of speech and freedom of the press.


Disaster Risk Management
Mr. Speaker, Sir, disasters are becoming a common occurrence due to the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation, among other factors. Government will, therefore, put in place disaster risk management measures to enhance our preparedness to respond to disasters.


We will strengthen our early warning systems in order to enhance preparedness and timely response to disasters.


Furthermore, Government will expedite the review of the Disaster Preparedness and Relief Act to guide in the management of disasters and disaster risks. We will work with development partners in planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating programmes aimed at reducing the risks of disasters.



CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, Sir, I would like to assure the people of Malawi that my Administration will work tirelessly to deliver on its promises. It is sad to note that after 50 years of independence, a large proportion of our people still live in abject poverty.


The majority of our youth remain jobless; many of our people do not know where their next meal will come from; and our infrastructure leaves a lot to be desired.


Mr. Speaker, Sir, we want to have a country where our youth have more paid employment, self-employment and entrepreneurship opportunities; where everyone has food at their table; where our people have decent accommodation; a country with modern infrastructure; where no one lives below the poverty line; and where the quality of life is high.


I wish to assure this august House that Government will do everything possible to ensure that Malawians live fulfilled and dignified lives. The DPP-led Government is determined to lay solid foundations and put effective systems in place.


We will reprioritise and allocate resources to productive areas with a view to promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth. We will overhaul our public service systems to ensure effectiveness and efficiency in the delivery of services. This will help us realise well-planned and comprehensive development that guarantees a brighter future for our beloved nation.


To achieve this, Mr. Speaker, Sir, we must all strive for unity of
purpose. I strongly believe that, together, we can turn around the plight of the people of Malawi. We can make Malawi a nation of endless opportunities and a better place for everyone.


It will not happen overnight, but, with dedication and hard work, we can transform our country from poverty to prosperity.


I, therefore, call upon Malawians from all sectors of our society, namely: the public service, private sector, non-governmental organisations, the civil society, the media, traditional leaders, religious leaders and members of all political parties to join me
in transforming our economy for a better Malawi.


At this juncture,Mr. Speaker, Sir, I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the people of Malawi for their spirit of hard work and dedication. I also wish to acknowledge and appreciate the contribution of our development and cooperating partners towards the development of our country.


The DPP guarantees remain the same, Mr. Speaker, Sir, that we will work with, and for, all people of Malawi regardless of their geographical regions of origin, race, creed, or colour so as to develop one nation. We will work together for the common good of all our people.


With these remarks, Mr. Speaker, Sir, I now have the singular honour and privilege to declare the 45th Session of Parliament and the July-October, 2014 Provisional Budget Meeting officially open.


May the Almighty God bless Malawi.

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, Sir.



TRANSFORMING OUR COUNTRY INTO A PROSPEROUS NATION WITH A SHARED
VISION STATE OF THE NATION ADDRESS by HIS EXCELLENCY PROF. ARTHUR PETER MUTHARIKA
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MALAWI on the occasion of THE STATE OPENING OF THE 45TH SESSION OF PARLIAMENT AND THE JULY-OCTOBER, 2014 PROVISIONAL BUDGET MEETING
LILONGWE

President Peter Mutharika Finds Love At Last

PRESS RELEASE

13th JUNE, 2014


The State House is pleased to inform all Malawians about the traditional wedding of His Excellency State President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika to his long time best friend and confidant Madam Gertrude Hendrina Maseko.



A private ceremony to bless the wedding will take place on Saturday 21st June, 2014 at St Michaels and All Angels CCAP Church in Blantyre. Thereafter a family reception will be held in the village, at the Mutharika family home at Ndata farm in Thyolo district.



H.E Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika comes from Kamoto Village, Traditional Authority Chimaliro in Thyolo district while Madam Gertrude Hendrina Maseko hails from Kapasule Village, Traditional Authority Msamala in Balaka district.


Former Malawi Police Service Inspector General, Peter Mukhito, is the Organising Committee Chairperson.




State House Press Office

Lilongwe

AFRICAN PARKS AND ICCN RESPOND TO POACHING ONSLAUGHT IN GARAMBA NATIONAL PARK, DRC

NEWS RELEASE
12 June 2014





Catastrophic: The hearts of the mighty elephants have been stilled at last. Picture courtesy of African Parks


African Parks has intensified its anti-poaching efforts in eastern DRC to counter the poaching onslaught that has beset Garamba National Park in the past two months. A total of 68 elephants have been poached since mid-April, representing about 4% of the total population.



Sorry sight: Elephant skull indicating bullet hole from the air and ivory removed by chainsaw.Picture courtesy of African Parks

In mid-May, African Parks reported that 33 elephants had been killed in the five weeks prior, indicating a concerted attack on the park’s elephant population. Despite intensified anti-poaching efforts since then, the total has risen to 68 elephants in the past two months, at least nine of them shot from a helicopter. On one occasion hand grenades were used against the Park’s rangers by Sudanese poachers. For the first time the brains of elephants have also been removed, together with tusks and genitals.



African Parks’ investigations have revealed that the poaching is emanating from four different sources: Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgents, armed groups from South Sudan, poachers operating from a helicopter, and renegade members of the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC). In the past few weeks Garamba’s anti-poaching teams have exchanged fire with several of these groups and five poachers have been killed. “The situation is extremely serious,” said Garamba park manager Jean-Marc Froment. “The Park is under attack on all fronts.”



Froment said that much of the poaching was being conducted by a new wave of LRA insurgents emanating from the thickly-forested Azande Domaine de Chasse (hunting zone) to the west of the park. Unlike previous encounters with the LRA, in which their weapons were old and ammunition limited, these groups have brand new weapons and ample supplies of ammunition.



The second threat comes from South Sudanese poachers, some of them wearing military uniforms, entering the Park from the north-east. “In one encounter, hand-grenades were used against our anti-poaching team in an exchange of fire that last 45 minutes,” said Froment.



The third threat is from poachers using an unidentified helicopter. Nine of the recently poached elephants had bullet wounds to the top of their heads and back and had been shot with military precision. In two recent attacks by helicopter, the tusks were removed with chainsaws and the brains and genitals were also targeted. These attacks are similar to a military-style helicopter attack two years ago that left 23 elephants dead in Garamba.



The escalated counter-poaching measures being rolled out by African Parks and ICCN include:

Collaboration with the regional military task force, which is being supported by AFRICOM (The United States Africa Command).

The establishment of forward operating bases at strategic points in the park and the manning of choke points to close down known poaching access routes.

The immediate construction of new roads, bridges and pontoon crossings across the park in order to facilitate the broader deployment of anti-poaching teams.

The extension of the park’s airstrip network and the intensification of aerial surveillance by the park’s two aircraft.

Bullet-proof reinforcement of trucks used to transport the anti-poaching teams as well as the park’s aircraft.

The extension of the current limited communications network throughout the park


In addition, a helicopter is being urgently sought for the rapid deployment of anti-poaching units in and around the park.


Last year, in anticipation of an escalation in poaching, African Parks invested heavily in anti-poaching equipment, communications systems, training and informer networks at Garamba, as well as training a specialised Rapid Response Unit to respond swiftly to severe poaching threats. “The current poaching crisis at Garamba, involving the use of heavy weapons and hand grenades against the park’s anti-poaching teams, now necessities an even more intensive anti-poaching effort,” said African Parks CEO Peter Fearnhead.



“This surge of poaching is unparalleled in the eight years that we have managed Garamba alongside ICCN,” said Fearnhead. “Garamba contains the largest remaining elephant population across this entire region of Africa and has therefore become a major poaching target. We do not underestimate the danger facing our rangers on the ground, but we are also determined to take whatever measure we need to protect our elephants.”



African Parks has managed Garamba in partnership with the DRC’s national park authority, ICCN, since 2005.


About African Parks: African Parks is a non-profit organisation that takes on total responsibility for the rehabilitation and long-term management of national parks in partnership with governments and local communities. African Parks operates seven national parks in six countries: the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Chad, Zambia and Malawi. Please see www.african-parks.org; https://www.facebook.com/AfricanParks


About ICCN: The ICCN (The Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation) is the Government authority responsible for the protected areas in the DRC. This includes national parks, forest reserves and designated hunting domains. Their mandate is to control and patrol these protected areas, collect and analyse field data and where possible facilitate tourism activities.



About Garamba National Park: Garamba National Park is situated in the north-eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo bordering South Sudan. It was established in 1938 and became one of the first national parks in Africa. The total area of the Garamba complex, including the surrounding domaines de chasse (hunting zones) is 12,427 km2 of which 4,900km2 is the park itself. Its vegetation consists of vast undulating grasslands and extensive sections of forest, which is home to a large population of elephants that are a hybrid between savanna and forest elephant. The park contains the last remaining population of Kordofan giraffe in DRC and was the last recorded refuge for the northern white rhino, now considered extinct in the wild. Garamba was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.



About the LRA (Lord’s Resistance Army): The LRA is a militant Ugandan rebel group that originally operated in Uganda and South Sudan, and has been operational in the DRC since about 2006. Led by Joseph Kony, the LRA is responsible for widespread human rights abuses including murder, rape and the abduction of children to become sex slaves and child soldiers. Garamba has long been a stronghold of the LRA in DRC, whose insurgents have been almost permanently resident in the park and the adjoining Azande Domaine de Chasse (hunting zone) for the past eight years. In 2009, an LRA attack on Garamba’s park headquarters, left 15 park employees and family members dead and destroyed $1 million worth of infrastructure. Over the past two years, the LRA has increasingly become involved in elephant poaching to fund its operations, trading tusks for food, weapons, ammunition and other supplies.

PAN AFRICAN CIVIC EDUCATORS NETWORK (PACENET) Press Statement for immediate release 12th June 2014: CALL ON POLITICAL PARTIES TO NOMINATE AND VOTE FOR A FEMALE SPEAKER

The Pan African Civic Educators Network (PACENET), as one of the implementing
organizations of the 50-50 campaign, acknowledges efforts by political parties that have secured seats in Parliament. We would like to congratulate both women and men who have been elected as Members of Parliament to serve the five year term between 2014 and 2019.


In particular, PACENET would like to thank Malawians who supported the 50-50 campaign by voting for female candidates. Furthermore, PACENET recognizes in a special way, old female MPs who have retained their seats or have made a comeback into Parliament. This only demonstrates the confidence Malawians have in the female MPs.


Despite not achieving the 50-50 target, PACENET is convinced that the 32 female MPs in the current Parliament have the capacity to effectively represent their constituencies and interests of the female section of the Malawi population.


At this critical time when political parties represented in Parliament are in the process of coming up with their nominees for the positions of Speaker, First and Second Deputy Speakers, PACENET would like to make a special appeal to all political leaders to prioritize female MPs for the position of Speaker. We further appeal to all Legislators to support such nomination by voting overwhelmingly because as an organisation we believe this Parliament has an opportunity to write a new chapter in the history of Malawi Parliament by electing a female Speaker for the first time.


Given the possibility of a polarized Parliament, PACENET is convinced that by their nature of a motherly heart, soberness would prevail in the august House when it comes to deliberating matters of national interests. PACENET believes it should be easy to identify capable candidates for the position of Speaker among the female MPs.


LET US SUPPORT WOMEN
Signed

Steve Duwa
Executive Director-PACENET

Misconceptions of An Article Entitled 'Donors Exposed'

PRESS RELEASE
(for Immediate release 10/06/2014)


The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) wishes to correct several issues that were misrepresented in the article titled Donors Exposed that appeared in The Nation on Sunday of June 8, 2014.


First, the Commission finds the headline and contents of the article to be misleading and not a true reflection of the commitment and support which the Development Partners have rendered to MEC during the elections period. The article does not reflect the views of the Chief Elections Officer or the Commission.


The donors fulfilled their commitments in this process, and it is improper to attribute to them the challenges that were faced during the polling period.


Secondly, there is no one from the Commission that would support the assertion that the Development Partners have not met their financial commitments to the process. Monthly high-level meetings have been held with the Development Partners on the funding and progress of the elections. The donors have delivered what was agreed with the MEC and the Government of Malawi.



The donors committed to pay for the printing of ballot papers and essential polling materials, such as, ballot boxes, voting screens and indelible ink. The Commission together with UNDP worked out a schedule of procurement and delivery of the electoral materials and it all worked according to the agreed timelines. In the case of ballot papers they even came earlier than planned.


It is also not correct to allege that there were some shortages in the electoral materials that were supplied. The quantities of the materials procured were verified by the Commission and on every item there was a contingency provision.


The use of plastic pails in some centres cannot be attributed to the donors. This was because of logistical challenges that some councils faced during the polling phase. However, the Commission managed to deliver ballot boxes to such centres before the close of polling.


The Commission also wishes to put on record that it started distributing non-sensitive polling materials on May 6, 2014. Distribution of sensitive materials like ballot papers was done close to the polling day for security reasons and this was according to schedule.


The Commission would like to urge all electoral stakeholders to disregard the contents of the article as misleading and not a true reflection of the facts on the ground. The Commission acknowledges that challenges were faced in this election process and we are analyzing these issues to improve our processes and systems.


The Commission led and implemented the election process, and as Malawians, we should be, and are, accountable. Casting about for excuses is not the way forward. We can only improve with honest reflections on the process of these elections and this Commission welcomes such feedback. The article in The Nation does nothing but
serve to distract us from those responsibilities.


Willie Kalonga

Chief Elections Officer

Announcement of The Determination of The Results for Parliamentary and Local Government Elections

June 2, 2014

Fellow Commissioners;

Representatives and leaders from Political Parties;

Distinguished Representatives of the Diplomatic Community and Development Partners;

Representatives of Observer Missions, both Domestic and international;

Representatives of Civil Society;

Staff of the Malawi Electoral Commission;

Distinguished members of the Media; and

Distinguished Guests;

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen:



On behalf of the Malawi Electoral Commission I am pleased to announce the results for the 2014 Parliamentary and Local Councilor elections.


The Electoral Commission has striven to ensure that every vote counts in these elections. This was a unique process, allowing for the concurrent election of the President and Vice President, 193 Parliamentary Seats for the National Assembly and 462 Councillor Seats across 35 Councils.



The organization of these elections is, as many of you know, one of the biggest and most complex operations undertaken in Malawi. The logistics and resources involved
are massive, as well as the efforts required to mobilize the population at large.


As such, we cannot and could not have organized these elections without the support of the government, the political parties, civil society organizations and the support of our international partners, who have also given their contribution to this massive effort.


We, as MEC, wish to congratulate and thank all Malawians for demonstrating their commitment towards Malawi’s democracy. We are grateful for the efforts and support
received from numerous groups that have enriched this process.


Across the country, non-governmental organisations, faith based organisations and community based organisations have worked hard in their communities to educate and mobilize voters. As you will shortly hear, these efforts have resulted in strong voter turnout.


Ladies and Gentlemen,
In all races there has been more than one candidate, and there can only be one winner in each race. The competition has been vigorous. Allow me to take the opportunity to
highlight that the Commission appreciates the statements and actions of all competitors in accepting defeat in a dignified and peaceful manner.


This is indeed the warm heart of Africa. This is indeed our country.


For any competitor that feels they have a justifiable claim to challenge the results – within our laws, candidates have seven days in which to submit an electoral petition to the High Court.


Ladies and Gentlemen,
For Parliamentary elections a total of one thousand two hundred and ninety two (1,292) candidates from seventeen (17) parties and four hundred and seventeen (417) independent candidates competed. Two hundred and sixty one (261) of these candidates were women.


For Local Councilor elections two thousand four hundred and twelve (2, 412) candidates from eighteen (18) parties and five hundred and seventy six (576) independent
candidates have competed. Of these four hundred and nineteen (419) women competed.
In order to increase the participation of women as candidates, the Commission provided a 25% discount for nomination fees. Women are a crucial voice in our society.
The role and need for greater female representation has been a feature of many international and national observer reports.


As such, the Commission would use this opportunity to urge all political parties to do more for the representation of women through their party machinery in the period between elections. Women make up more than 50% of Malawians and should be well represented in every elected body throughout our land.


The results that we are about to announce show the interest and strength of participation that Malawians hold for all levels of government:

Ladies and Gentlemen, five million, two hundred and thirty four thousand, five hundred and six (5,234,506) votes were cast in parliamentary elections, representing 70.07% of
registered voters. Of these votes, seventy four thousand, six hundred and thirty-four (74,634) votes or 1.43% were deemed null and void.


For the Local Government Elections in the year of 2000, allow me to remind you that voter turnout was a mere 14%. In these elections five million, one hundred and fifty three thousand, nine hundred and ninety-three (5,153,993) votes were cast. This represents 68.99% of registered voters. Of these, one hundred and twenty-one thousand, one hundred and seventy votes (121,170) or 2.35% were deemed to be null and void.


The Commission is satisfied with the way the electoral process was conducted in an orderly, calm and peaceful manner. The level of null and void votes across all races was historically low for Malawi. Let me assure all voters that your Commission has done its best to act inclusively throughout the election period, honoring its commitment to Malawi’s citizens and all political parties. As has been noted in the
European Union’s Observation report, these elections have been transparent and inclusive to define solutions to address the challenges that arose.


This has not been an easy task, but again, one that we took with utmost seriousness. Since the 20th of May, until today, about 300 electoral Commission workers have been present here at the National Tally Center working on shifts to tally the results.


Others have lived through very challenging circumstances while implementing the election on the 20th of May and subsequent days.


As electoral workers and as Malawian citizens we have felt the pressure from the past few weeks. We have felt the eyes of the country on us. I would like to give a word of praise and recognize the efforts of the staff of the Electoral Commission
and the tens of thousands of temporary workers. Thank you for your work and dedication. The results to be announced are the fruit of your efforts and commitment.


It is important that we reflect on the difficulties found, and that we build on this knowledge. There are many lessons we wish to learn ourselves and impart to the next generation of election administrators so their future work is informed by our
current experience.


The Commission has worked diligently to assess each and every election result across all races. Where there has been any doubt we have investigated to be able to announce
results that are credible and genuine. Our determinations on these issues have been forged by a consensus of the Commission, and have therefore been endorsed by all
Commissioners.


Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a privilege to share with you the results tallied in this National Tally Center. Your elected Members of Parliament and Local Councilors have a critical role to play.
Collectively they will be able to identify the Nation’s and community’s needs, and set the goals and action-plans to meet those needs. There will always be competing priorities for limited resources. However, communities will have their voice heard through their duly elected representatives in Councils and the National Assembly.


I wish to congratulate the future Members of Parliament and Local Councilors. This Commission, wishes all the success to our Members of Parliament and Local Councilors in
achieving the goals set to enhance the prosperity of Malawi and Malawians during their tenure. May they find all the necessary support to fulfill their roles and their functions, and lead Malawi toward a bright future.


After the announcement of results, the processes of publication and taking office of Members of Parliament and new Local Councilors will follow.


Notice is hereby given that the following are the results arising from the National Assembly and Local Councilor Elections that took place in four hundred and fifty eight (458) wards and one hundred and ninety two (192) Constituencies.


Ladies and Gentlemen, allow me to make the formal declaration of the Parliamentary results.

…
[Commissioners to Announce Parliamentary Determinations]
…
Ladies and Gentlemen, the formal declaration of the Local Government Elections is
…
ZODIAK radio and MBC Television will now announce the official results for the Local Government Elections.

Thank you and God Bless You

Two Suspects Arrested Over The Death of Dexter Chilunda, Head of Law Enforcement at Liuwa Plain National Park, ZambiaIA

NEWS RELEASE
2 June 2014




Killed in the course of his work: Chilunda

Two men have been arrested in connection with the killing of Dexter Chilunda, the head of law enforcement at Liuwa Plain National Park. Dexter was shot by suspected poachers while investigating gunshots heard by park rangers in the park on Friday, 23 May 2014.



The men were apprehended in the town of Lukulu, 35 kilometres from the park on Sunday, 1 June 2014, and are to appear in court at a date that has not yet been established.

Last respects: Officers say their last goodbyes to Chilunda

The arrests resulted from the combined efforts of the Zambian police, ZAWA and five Liuwa Plain law enforcement officers following leads by supportive local communities who were devastated by his death.



An experienced ranger and law enforcement officer with more than 20 years’ experience, Dexter Chilunda was on secondment to Liuwa Plain National Park from ZAWA. He was buried on Monday 26 May in Kaomo (250 kms from Liuwa). He leaves a wife and seven children who will be financially provided for in terms of a life insurance policy put in place by African Parks.



“The combined efforts of the Zambian police, ZAWA and the Liuwa Plain law enforcement unit that resulted in the arrests are to be commended, said African Parks CEO, Peter Fearnhead. “In addition, we are appreciative of the overwhelming support from local communities who assisted the investigating team. The arrests also send a strong warning message to poachers about the consequences of their activities.”



About African Parks: African Parks is a non-profit organisation that takes on total responsibility for the rehabilitation and long-term management of national parks in partnership with governments, wildlife organisations and local communities. We operate seven national parks in six countries: Chad, Rwanda,the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Republic of Congo, Zambia and Malawi.

Voting, Vote Recount Principles

As electoral stakeholders, including political parties, continue to debate whether the May 20 Tripartite Elections were free and fair, and as the debate on whether a votes’ recount rages on, Zachimalawi can reveal that some international publications and legal experts acknowledge that voting and vote recounting is part of ensuring that the will of the people is not subverted.



A good case in point is the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which advances the principle that citizens have a right “to vote in genuine elections”.



For instance, Article 25 of the ICCPR, signed by 152 nations, provides that: “Every citizen shall have the right and opportunity , without any of the deductions mentioned in Article 2 (which addresses issues of discrimination) and without unreasonable restrictions: (a) to take part in the conduct of public affairs directly or through freely chosen representatives; (b) to vote and to be elected at genuine periodic elections and shall be held by secret ballot, guaranteeing the free expression of the will of the electors…”



And, according to the book ‘Recount Principles and Best Practices’- written by Mark Halvorson of Citizens for Election Integrity Minnesota et al – one of the mechanisms of ensuring that the will of voters is not subverted is through vote recounts.



“Although recounts challenge us, they serve an important purpose in our democracy. Foremost, properly conducted recounts assure candidates and the public that in a close election, there has been a fair examination of the procedures and an accurate count of all legally cast votes,” reads the book in part, adding:



“Recounts can also help us improve election systems. Any shortcomings in our voting equipment, ballot design, and ballot processing are revealed by the scrutiny of a recount.”



The book observes, however, that recounts expose shortcomings in the administrative and security protocols and the overall pre-election planning.



It also observes that, to ensure that recounted votes are accurate, there is need to have voter-verifiable paper records, a water-tight ballot reconciliation system, and secure chain of custody.



“One essential component of a voting system’s accuracy, integrity, and security is a paper ballot or a voter-verifiable paper audit trail for every vote cast. This ensures that election officials have an independent record to confirm that the results produced by the voting system accurately reflect the actual votes cast and the intention of the voters,” the book reads in part.



It adds: “Thorough ballot accounting and reconciliation helps to ensure that the sum of the ballots used (including voted, spoiled, and unvoted) for a particular voting precinct matches the number of ballots assigned or delivered to a voting precinct. This process also involves verifying that the number of voters who have voted is neither greater nor less than the number of voted ballots, ensuring that no votes are lost and no votes are counted more than once.



“To safeguard against tampering and loss, paper ballots, records, and voting equipment should be fully secured and documented as to each individual who handled them, when they were handled, and for what purpose. Voting equipment and materials should be accounted for throughout the election administration process.”



An international Symposium held a couple of years ago under the theme, Identifying International Principles for Resolving Election Disputes’ also indicated that legal systems are key to the process of conducting trustworthy elections.



“Applying predictable rule-based decision-making, which is subject to judicial review, ensures that the recount process is reliable, trustworthy, and faithful to the actual voting record,” reads part of the findings by the symposium.



However, the book ‘International Election Principles: Democracy and the Rule of Law’ edited by John Hardin Young indicates that the issue of ballot papers’ safety and security remains divisive, owing to the fact that there are no internationally agreed standards on ballot design.



“Ballot design varies widely worldwide, and in some cases, such as in the US, even within a country. Organisations such as Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights note that ballot design should ‘avoid confusion’ but they offer little else in terms of international standards,” reads the book in part.





While all these processes are necessary, www.accuratedemocracy.com agues that the onus to reduce post-election conflicts is on candidates.



The website asks contestants in elections to develop policies that cater for every segment of the voters in a bid to avoid issues such as that of vote recount and that of voter aparthy.



“A policy needs good marks from voters on all sides. That is because every voter can rank it compared to other policies. So, all voters are ‘obtainable’ and valuable. This leads to policies with wide appeal,” reads a posting on the website.



The site also calls for Instance Runoff Voting, as opposed to the First-Past-The-Post System used in countries such as Malawi, to help voters settle for the candidate with the most appeal.



“Some Benefits of Instant Runoff Voting are: A majority winner from one election, so no winners-without-mandates and no costly runoff elections…;less divisive campaigns and attack ads, as a candidate tells rival factions why she is their best backup choice; No hurting your first choice by ranking a backup, as it does not count unless your first choice has lost; no lesser-of-two-evils choice, because you can mark your true first choice without fear of wasting your vote; (and) no split-vote worries for a faction, as votes for their weakest candidate move to each supporter's backup choice,” the website argues.



However, whether these observations will ring true in Malawi remains to be seen.

AUC Chairperson Congratulates Malawi for Successful Elections and Democratic Maturity

Congratulatory Message



Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – 31 May 2014. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma congratulates the people of Malawi for hosting peaceful and successful elections and reinforcing the country’s democratic maturity. The Chairperson praises Malawians’high sense of civic responsibility and demonstrated patience given the anxiety around the vote-tallying process and the final announcement of results of the 20 May 2014 tripartite elections.



Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma congratulates the President-elect, Peter Mutharika for his victory, and calls on him to work toward reconciling Malawians, bringing together those voted for him, or not, for the good of Malawi and the entire Africa.



While congratulating other political party contenders for their democratic maturity and placing national interest first, she encourages them to channel any grievances through appropriate non-violent and legal means to seek justice.



The Chairperson also congratulates the Malawi Electoral Commission, civil society organization, the media and other national and international stakeholders for remaining steadfast in protecting and promoting the Malawian democratic process, upholding the constitutional order and rule of law. This is the spirit that is required for building sustainable peace.





Jacob Enoh Eben

Ag. Spokesperson of the Chairperson

Announcement of Parliamentary and Local Government Elections Results Today Evening

The Malawi Electoral Commission will today announce official Parliamentary and Local Government Elections results Results at the National Tally Centre in Blantyre.


The event will start at 6 o'clock this evening.

THE DPP MANIFESTO AND GENDER EQUALITY, WOMEN AND DEVELOPMENT PROCESSES IN MALAWI

NGO-GENDER COORDINATION NETWORK PRESS STATEMENT

NGO-Gender Coordination Network (NGO-GCN) is a grouping of gender and human rights NGOs who are active in promoting gender equality and equity including equal participation of women in political and public decision making positions.


The NGO-GCN would like to take this opportunity to congratulate His Excellency Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika and the Right Honourable Saulos Klaus Chilima of the Democratic People’s Party (DPP) on being elected President and Vice President respectively, of the Republic of Malawi.


The NGO-GCN is encouraged to note that the DPP pledged in their manifesto “to walk the talk and turn their development promises into real benefits for the people”. The NGO-GCN notes that there are a number of provisions in the DDP Manifesto which have a critical bearing on the enjoyment and realization of women’s rights in Malawi. The NGO-GCN therefore looks forward to the implementation of the promises that the DPP made in their 2014 Manifesto in relation to gender and participation of women in national development. The promises made by the DPP in their manifesto on gender, women
and development processes include the following:


EXTRACTS FROM THE DPP 2014 MANIFESTO
DPP Manifesto Principles and Guidelines: No person in Malawi will be denied basic rights, civil liberties and the rule of law. The Malawi Constitution will serve as the basis of the DPP’s political, economic and social transformation. The DPP shall adopt political structures in which all interest groups - the traditional chiefs, religious leaders, the business community, the teachers, the women, the youth, the elderly and the disabled, are fully represented and are given the voice at appropriate level in the
society.


Chapter 7 Public / Civil Service: The DPP will ensure gender balance and equality of opportunity in the public/civil service. On matters of recruitment, training and promotions, the DPP government will ensure that the numbers of men and women are comparable to one another. At leadership levels, the numbers shall be equal.



Chapter 11 Separation of Powers: The Executive: There will be established an effective Cabinet of 20 capable men and women, including Deputies, that will be accountable for their activities. A proper gender balance shall be observed to ensure women are fully represented in the National Assembly, the Cabinet, and the civil service and in all public institutions and organizations. The legislature: All efforts will be made to have as many women representatives in the legislature as possible, in line with the 50-50 representation that DPP committed to.



Chapter 22 Women and Development: The thrust of the DPP policy will be to accord women full recognition and unimpeded access to all aspects of Malawi's development. The DPP condemns the marginalization and discrimination of women in the development process. We shall, therefore, intensify programmes aimed at removing illiteracy, underemployment and exploitation of women. DPP shall also place the highest priority on increasing the number of women in responsible policy-making positions.


The DPP Government will not tolerate the abuse of women in any form including discrimination and gender based violence. Women will therefore be respected, protected and facilitated to play a more positive role in our country. Specifically, the following measures will be implemented:

Genuinely recognize women as equal partners in development in every field of economic and political endeavour and ensure that they are supported to become Company Executives, Board members, Members of Parliament and Cabinet Ministers just to mention a few;


Establish a clear national policy on women in development and in business;

Identify and disseminate information on new opportunities for women to increase trade in Malawi, Africa and the rest of the world;

Support the Gender Coordination Network, the National Association of Women in Business
and other women organizations to provide an enabling forum of women entrepreneurship in
commodity trade or trade-related services in banking and finance, insurance, transport, cargo operations, design, production development, to provide a new dimension for Malawi women in international trade;


Continuously review and enact strong legislation to prevent the abuse and battering of
women and to protect them from property grabbing and impoverishment of the women by
relatives following the death of a spouse.


Chapter 33 Guarantees and Safeguards: The DPP will continue to promote the role of women in business, in development and in the cultural heritage of our country. The DPP shall increase women representation in the Parliament, the Cabinet, the Civil Service and all aspects of Malawi's development.


The DPP will continue to encourage non-governmental organizations registered in Malawi to engage in a constructive dialogue with Government to enable them to play a more positive role in the development of our country.


The NGO-GCN welcomes this invitation to engage in constructive dialogue with the DPP led Government with regard to women’s rights as enshrined in the Malawi Constitution; ratified by the Malawi Government under the SADC Protocol on Gender and Development and other international legal instruments and as recently translated by the Malawi Gender Equality Act. The NGO -GCN looks forward to the DPP living up to the promises made in their Manifesto as highlighted above and wishes the President, Vice President and the new Government the best success.


Signed :Emma Kaliya, NGO-GCN Chairperson

Name: Victor Maulidi, Network Coordinator
Dated: 02 June, 2014

Announcement of Parliamentary and Local Government Elections Results Today Evening

The Malawi Electoral Commission will today announce official Parliamentary and Local Government Elections results Results at the National Tally Centre in Blantyre.


The event will start at 6 o'clock this evening.

MESN PVT VALIDATES MEC’S OFFICIAL RESULTS

MESN Statement on Announcement of Official Presidential Results by the MEC



Delivered in Blantyre – 31 May 2014
Yesterday, 30 May 2014, the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) announced the official results for the presidential election. The Malawi Electoral Support Network (MESN), as part of our comprehensive observation effort for the 2014 Tripartite Elections, conducted a Parallel Vote Tabulation (PVT) exercise to provide independent verification of the accuracy of those results. The results announced by MEC track closely with data obtained by the PVT, and thus, MESN can state with confidence that despite the challenges which plagued the tallying process the official results for the presidential election are an accurate reflection of ballots cast.


The 2014 Tripartite Elections were observed by more than 10,000 observers drawn from Malawi, Southern Africa, across the continent and the broader international community. Not only MESN, but also the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African Union (AU), the Commonwealth, and the European Union (EU) all have acknowledged shortcomings in the MEC’s conduct of the elections, but all have also clearly stated that these did not fundamentally undermine the integrity of the process.


Further, political parties deployed thousands of party agents to polling stations to witness setup, voting and counting. Most importantly, they were given an opportunity to sign the official presidential results form (MEC.060c). At the vast majority of polling stations agents from DPP, MCP, PP and UDF were present and signed these forms, showing across the political spectrum that despite the challenges on Election Day the process worked (see Appendix 3 for information on political party polling agents at polling streams signing the official results).


As MESN stated in its preliminary statement on 24 May, the 2014 Tripartite Elections have not been a step forward. In particular, there were serious challenges with: the production of the voter’s register; the delivery of materials to polling stations; and the tallying of results. While these issues did not ultimately undermine the credibility of the process, neither did they build public confidence in our democratic institutions. This was Malawi’s fourth election since the re-introduction of multiparty politics, and Malawians deserve better.


Following the elections there must be serious soul searching by all stakeholders, meaningful electoral reform, and tangible actions to ensure the 2019 elections meet the expectations of the Malawian people. As a first step, MESN urges the MEC to immediately release polling station results for all three elections (presidential, parliamentary and local councillor). This will help enhance transparency and start the process of rebuilding public confidence in the MEC.


PVT Findings
For each of the four top vote-getting candidates, the official result as announced by the MEC falls within the PVT estimated range. The PVT estimated Dr. Joyce Banda should receive between 18.2% and 21.8% of the vote, and she received 20.2% of the vote according to MEC’s official results. The PVT estimated Dr. Lazarus Chakwera should between 25.1% and 31.7% of the vote, and he received 27.8% of the vote according to MEC’s official results. The PVT estimated Atupele Muluzi should receive between 11.9% and 15.5% of the vote, and he received 13.7% of the vote according the MEC’s official results. The PVT estimated Prof. Peter Mutharika should receive between 32.7% and 39.3% of the vote, and he received 36.4% of the vote according to MEC’s official results. Thus, MESN can confidently and independently verify the accuracy of the official results as announced by the MEC.

MESN PVT Estimates for Presidential Election
(795 of 800 (99%) polling stations reporting with 922,219 valid votes cast)


Similarly, the MEC announced official turnout for the presidential election at 70.8%, which falls within the PVT estimated range of between 68.7% to 72.5%.


Concerns have been raised about the possibility of polling stations with turnout of over 100%. MESN’s PVT Observers did report that there were polling stations with turnout of over 100%, but this affected only 2% of all sampled polling stations and in most cases these were only small discrepancies. MESN PVT Observers reported another 2% of polling sampled stations with a turnout of between 95% and 100%. However, these polling stations with high turnout did not benefit any particular political party. The data from the PVT demonstrates that if the results for all of these polling stations were thrown out it would not change the outcome of the presidential election. MESN, however, would not recommend the votes from these stations be disregarded, unless further investigation reveals there are problems with those votes.


PVT Methodology
MESN deployed 800 trained and accredited PVT Observers to a representative random sample of polling stations, representing more than 1.3 million registered voters, located across all three regions, all 28 districts and all 193 constituencies (see Appendix 1 for distribution of MESN’s PVT Observers). MESN’s PVT Observers arrived at polling stations at 5am and observed the entire process starting with the setup of polling stations through voting and finally counting and the announcement of results for the polling stations. MESN PVT Observers recorded the official results as announced by the presiding officer and transmitted these to a central data centre by coded text message.



All PVT reports were verified for accuracy and have since been checked against the original paper PVT checklists. PVT Observers did not count any ballot papers themselves nor did they ask any voter how he/she voted. The PVT did not rely on any information from print or electronic media. It is an entirely independent exercise conducted solely by MESN with the intent of providing independent information on the accuracy of the official result of the presidential election regardless of the outcome.



The PVT methodology is based upon well-established and widely-accepted statistical principles. PVT’s are a common tool of citizen observation and have been conducted across Africa, including: Ghana, Kenya and Zambia. The PVT is not new to Malawi. The methodology was employed here in 1999 by the Church NGO Consortium and 2009 by MESN – in both cases the PVT verified the accuracy of the official results (see Appendix 2 for examples of results verification using PVTs from Africa).



Because the methodology involves collecting official results from a representative random sample, the PVT provides an estimated range within which each candidate’s percentage of the vote should fall within rather than a specific percentage of the vote for each candidate. The PVT methodology relies upon a sample to enable the highest standards to be employed in the recruitment and training of observers. This ensures the PVT provides the most reliable and accurate data possible.



The logic of the PVT is straight forward. If at any point in the official tallying process the results are manipulated in any way by anyone, then the PVT will expose this rigging as the official results will not be consistent with the PVT estimates. However, if the PVT estimates match the official results, then the contestants and the public should have greater confidence that the official results truly reflect the ballots cast at polling stations.


Conclusion
The 2014 presidential election has been challenging for our country and our democratic institutions. All elections test our collective resolve to democratic principles, but highly contested elections test them even more. Twelve candidates stood for president, but only one could win. Thus, from the outset eleven candidates and their supporters were destined to be disappointed with the results. The failings of the MEC have not made this disappointment any less bittersweet, but those failings did not affect the outcome of the presidential election.



If any candidate or political party feels aggrieved, they should follow the proper legal channels. All candidates and their supporters should continue to adhere to their obligations under the MEC’s Code of Conduct for Political Parties and Candidates which stipulates that they “shall publicly declare their commitment to accept the results of any election or challenge the results in court under the Electoral Law, Parliamentary and Presidential Elections Act, Local Government Elections Act and the Constitution, as may be amended.”



With the MEC’s announcement of the official presidential results on May 30, 2014, the Malawian people have spoken. The winner should be magnanimous in victory and reach out to their former competitors to work together to improve the lives of all Malawians. At the same time, those candidates who were unsuccessful should remember that these are not our last elections, but only another step in our democratic development. Malawians will go to the polls again in 2019 and candidates and parties will have another opportunity to convince voters their policies are best for the country.



MESN calls on all candidates, their supporters and the general public to show political maturity; to remain calm and to maintain the peace. MESN continues to observe the process and will issue additional statements as appropriate as well as a final report on the entire process for the 2014 Tripartite Elections.



Signed

Steve Duwa

MESN BOARD CHAIRPERSON






MESN’s Methodology
MESN observes elections based on the Declaration of Global Principles for Nonpartisan Election Observation and Monitoring by Citizen Organizations. In assessing the conduct of elections, MESN looks at compliance by all stakeholders with our Constitution, Electoral Act and related laws as well as regulations and procedures set out by the MEC. MESN also draws upon Malawi regional and international commitments contained in the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections; the African Charter on Democracy, Elections, and Governance; the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and related protocols.



The data for this report is based primarily on observations from MESN’s 800 Parallel Vote Tabulation (PVT) Observers who were deployed to a representative random sample of polling stations across all three regions, all 28 districts and all 193 parliamentary constituencies. While MESN deployed nearly 7,000 total observers to encourage participation, deter problems and enhance transparency, the role of MESN’s 800 PVT Observers was to provide rapid information on the conduct of the election that is truly representative of the entire country. It is also information from these observers that will be used to verify the accuracy of the official results as announced by the MEC.




About MESN
Malawi Electoral Support Network (MESN) is a registered network of civil society organizations working on democratic governance and elections in Malawi. It is a registered member of Council for Non- Governmental Organizations (CONGOMA) in Malawi. It was formed in 2003 and has successfully participated in 2004 and 2009 Parliamentary and Presidential Elections in Malawi and currently has 27 members. It has also participated in election observer missions in the SADC regions and beyond. MESN is currently chair for SADC Electoral Support Network (SADC ESN) and founding member of the Global Network for Domestic Election Monitors (GNDEM). It comprises of non-governmental, faith-based and community – based organizations. The network works closely with Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC), other networks, development partners, political parties and eligible voters in ensuring that elections held in Malawi meet both local and international standards for acceptable democratic elections as a way of sustaining democratic governance in Malawi.

Statement Attributable to The Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the Elections in Malawi

New York, 30 May 2014: The Secretary-General has been following closely the electoral process in Malawi and has taken note of the developments in the past few weeks, including the announcement of results on 30 May by the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC). At this critical juncture in Malawi, he urges all parties to continue to call for calm among their supporters, exercise restraint in the spirit of the Lilongwe Peace Declaration of 10 May, and respect the Constitutional provisions.



The Secretary-General calls on all candidates, political parties and their supporters to pursue any complaints or disputes arising from the electoral process through the existing legal mechanisms. He reiterates his call on political leaders to urge their supporters to work together to consolidate democracy and maintain stability in Malawi.

Mec Declares DPP's Peter Mutharika Winner

The Malawi Electoral Commission (Mec) on Saturday declared Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)'s presidential candidate, Peter Mutharika, president-elect at a highly-patronised event held at Comesa Hall in Blantyre.

Mec chairperson, Justice Maxon Mbendera, said Mutharika and his running mate Saulos Chilima were the president-elect and vice president-elect, respectively.

His announcement came after Rev. Ambassador Chimkwita Phiri anounced that Mutharika had polled 1,904,399 of the votes, representing 36.4 percent, followed by Malawi Congress Party's presidential candidate Lazarus Chakwera, who polled 1,455,880, representing 27.8 percent, while the incumbent Joyce Banda came third, with 1,056,236 votes, representing 20.2 percent. United Democratic Front's presidential candidate, Atupele Muluzi, came forth with 717, 224 of the votes, representing 13.7 percent.


Northern Region Vote
In the Northern Region, 848, 542 voters turned up on polling day and voted in the presidential election, of which 842, 962 were valid votes and 5,580 were declared null and void.

Of these, People's Party's Joyce Banda polled 448, 953 votes, representing 56.6 percent; MCP's Lazarus Chakwera came second with 180, 498, representing 22.8 percent; Mutharika polled 175, 850, representing 22.2 percent; while Atupele Muluzi polled 21, 938, representing 2.8 percent.

James Nyondo of the National Salvation Front polled 3, 800 votes (0.5 percent); Kamuzu Chibambo of People's Transformation Party 3, 596 (0.5 percent); John Chisi of Umodzi Party 2, 312 (0.3 percent); Mark Katsonga Phiri of the Peoples Progressive Movement 1, 556 (0.2 percent); Helen Singh of United Independence Party 1, 514 (0.2 percent); George Nnesa of Malawi Forum for Unity and Development 1, 195 (0.2 percent); Friday Jumbe of Nw Labour Party 1, 059 (0.1 percent), and; Aaron Davis Katsonga of Chipani Cha Pfuko 691 (0.1 percent).


Central Region Vote
In the Central Region, a total of 2, 118, 323 voters turned up and voted in the presidential election, of which 2, 096, 199 were valid votes and 22, 124 were declared null and void.

MCP's Chakwera got more votes than other presidential aspirants, polling 1, 208, 269 votes (56.3 percent); DPP's Mutharika came second with 430, 117 votes (20 percent); Joyce Banda of PP 272, 709 (12.7 percent); Atupele Muluzi of UDF 154, 353 (7.2 percent); Kamuzu Chibambo of Petra 8, 092 votes (0.4 percent); John Chisi 4,394 (0.2 percent); James Nyondo 3, 825 (0.2 percent); Mark Katsonga Phiri 3, 702 (0.2 percent); George Nnesa 3, 319 (0.2 percent); Helen Singh 2, 985 (0.1 percent); Friday Jumbe 2, 728 (0.1 percent), and; Aaron Davis Katsonga 1, 636 (0.1 percent).


Southern Region Vote
In the Southern Region- where 2, 318, 393 voters cast their ballots for presidential candidates, of which 2, 289, 422 votes were valid and 28, 971 votes were declared null and void- DPP's Mutharika came tops.

Mutharika polled 1, 298, 432 votes (56.7 percent); Atupele Muluzi polled 540, 963 (23.6 percent); Joyce Banda 334, 574 (14.6 percent); Lazarus Chakwera 67, 013 votes (2.9 percent); Mark Katsonga Phiri 10, 572 (0.5 percent); Kamuzu Chibambo 7, 672 (0.3 percent); George Nnesa 6, 528 (0.3 percent); John Chisi 5, 342 (0.2 percent); Hlen Singh 5, 169; Davis Katsonga 5, 126; Jumbe 5,032 (0.2 percent); James Nyondo 2, 998 (0.1 percent).


The percentages
In summary, Democratic Progressive Party's Peter Mutharika won with 36.4 percent of the vote, closely followed by Malawi Congress Party's Lazarus Chakwera with 27.8 percent of the vote. Joyce Banda of the People's Party got 20.2 percent, while Atupele Muluzi of the United Democratic Front captured 13.7 percent of the votes.

It is one of Malawi's most-contested presidential elections since the turn of multiparty politics of governance in 1994.

Parliamentary and Local Government Elections' results will be announced with the next 72 hours, with Mec indicating that it has tallied over 70 percent of the results.

Speech by MEC Chairman During Briefing With Stakeholders on May 29

PRESS STATEMENT

29 May 2014 (8pm)



Ladies and Gentlemen,



On behalf of the Malawi Electoral Commission I am here to report on developments and progress towards the determination of the election results. The Commission has continued to work diligently on the process of complaints and verifying the Presidential results.



As a result of these efforts, the number of polling centers that we have identified which reported more than 100% voter turnout, has increased from 58 to 65 centers. For these cases, the MEC is closely auditing and cross-referencing the information to make a suitable determination.



For the Parliamentary and Local Government elections the MEC has continued to progress. So far more than 75% of the information has been verified and tallied. The Commission will be assessing its progress tomorrow, ensuring that its rigorous standards of verification are met. This may delay our announcement of Parliamentary and Local Government races. Under the law, the announcement of the determination of these races may be suspended for up to seventy-two (72) hours.



For the complaints that have been received by the Commission, two-hundred and forty-eight (248) have been processed. Of these, two-hundred and sixteen (216) have been resolved. In twenty-six (26) cases, further evidence has been requested, but no feedback has yet been received. And finally, in six (6) cases incomplete information was provided by the complainant.



We have also continued to consult with our stakeholders. In particular, the Commission met with the Malawi Human Rights Commission to discuss developments. Their support and advice is highly appreciated and valued by the Commission.



We have also met with delegations from several political parties to review their concerns. These discussions have been productive in clarifying issues and maintaining a constructive form of communication.



Too often, some stakeholders have preempted discussions with the Commission by communicating first through the media. By degrees, this has caused unnecessary confusion, rumors and misinformation – in particular, across the social media. As such, the Commission wishes to remind all stakeholders and in particular the media, to confirm information and avoid needless tension.



Our latest advice on the Court proceedings for a recount and the required extension of time to announce results, is that they are ongoing. As such, allow me to reiterate my statement to the Nation of yesterday. The Commission is continuing to prepare to announce its determination of the Presidential results tomorrow, in accordance with the law, or as the Courts may otherwise direct.



The Commission is also undertaking a full audit of the ballot boxes that have been retrieved from across the country. It has been reported to the Commission by the Chief Election Officer that ballot boxes from all locations have been collected to regional warehouses. Meanwhile, warehouse staff are completing a detailed audit and verification of all ballot boxes in storage.



The election law (section 119) requires that the official record of the election - including ballot papers - be preserved for 12 months afterward. As such, any person interfering with these ballot boxes will be liable to criminal prosecution.



Thank you and God Bless You.

Justice M. Mbendera, SC

Chairman

Malawi Electoral Commission

Blantyre