Following the publishing in the gazette the 23rd June as the date of polling for the fresh presidential election, the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) says it is expected to receive the ballot papers and associated electoral materials from the printing company on June 19.
In a statement signed by its chairperson, Justice Dr. Chifundo Kachale, the commission said the printer of the materials, a Dubai based company, Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing LLC, has indicated that it will take a minimum of seven days to print and package the ballot papers.
The company is based in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates.
According to the statement, MEC held a meeting on June 11 and resolved that the printing of ballot papers should commence immediately and the resolution of the commission has been duly communicated to the printing company.
Reads part of the statement: “In a letter dated 11th June 2020, to the commission the printer has indicated that it will take a minimum of seven (7) days to print and package the ballot papers.
“All factors remain constant, the ballot papers and associated electoral materials may be received by the Commission on 19th June, 2020 at Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe, in the presence of candidates’ representatives.
The commission has also assured to directly engage the candidates on anticipated logistical challenges and possible mitigation measures ahead of the polls as stipulated in the section 82 (2) of the electoral commission act.
On Tuesday, Parliament set June 23 as the date for the fresh presidential elections, amid protests from the government side.
