The Supreme Court of Appeal has dismissed an appeal by President Peter Mutharika and the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) against nullification of the May 21, 2019 presidential poll.

According to a panel of seven judges led by Chief Justice Andrew Nyirenda, the determination by the Constitutional Court to have fresh presidential elections within 150 days is still binding.

The Court has also directed that no new voters should be allowed to register for the fresh polls saying their rights were not violated as they did not vote during the elections.

Speaking to YFM after the delivery of the judgment, one of the lawyers representing first respondent Saulos Chilima, Dr. Chikosa Silungwe said MEC has drawn serious lessons on their incompetence in handling elections.

On his part, Malawi Congress Party (MCP) President and Tonse Alliance torch bearer Dr. Lazarus Chakwera expressed satisfaction with the judgement saying it represents the will of Malawians.

Dr. Chakwera`s running mate Dr. Saulos Chilima, has vowed to continue with the Tonse Alliance despite being given liberty to stand as a presidential candidate.