The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has today started receiving nomination papers for presidential, parliamentary and local government elections.

The national wide nomination exercise will see up to 53 political parties fielding candidates in various posts and positions in preparation of the May 21 tripartite elections.

Presidential, parliamentary and local government polls are officially presenting their nomination papers at various points across the country.

For presidential aspirants, COMESA Hall in Blantyre is the center of the exercise.

Opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP) president Dr Lazarus Chakwera was the first to present his presidential elections nomination papers on Monday morning.

Chakwera and his vice Sidik Mia have also signed a code of conduct to commit that they will carry out a peaceful campaign.

Umodzi Party president Professor John Chisi will be the second candidate to present his presidential nomination papers 11 am.