High Court Sets Date for MCP Candidature Case

Lilongwe, Malawi – High Court Judge Howard Pemba has set July 31, 2024, as the trial date for a case challenging the Malawi Congress Party’s (MCP) decision to bar certain individuals from contesting for positions in the National Executive Committee (NEC).

During a scheduling conference in Lilongwe today (Thursday), lawyers representing the complainant, Eddie Banda, and the party appeared before Judge Pemba, who gave directions for the trial to proceed on July 31.

The case revolves around MCP’s resolution that only members who have been with the party for at least two years and have held a position within the party are eligible to contest for a position in the NEC.

However, the resolution has been challenged by some aspirants, who argue that it is unfair.

The ruling comes just weeks before MCP’s elective convention, scheduled to take place from August 8-10 in Lilongwe. The outcome of the trial is expected to have significant implications for the party’s leadership and direction.