Controversial Age Limit Bill Returns To Parliament

The Age Limit Bill, which is set to return to Parliament continues leaving many Malawians confused and skeptical.

In a surprising twist, the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has come out in opposition to the Bill, citing that it goes against democratic principles and freedom of choice.

This move is ironic, as many believed the MCP was supporting the infamous Bill to suppress the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader, Arthur Peter Mutharika.

According to Richard Chimwendo Banda, the MCP’s Secretary General, ; “MCP will not support the Bill, which aims to prohibit individuals above 80 from running for the presidency”.

The proposal has been met with skepticism, with some arguing that it’s necessary to ensure the president’s physical and mental capability, while others see it as an attempt to restrict individual rights.

The Bill, initially proposed by Kondwani Nankhumwa as a private member’s bill, is believed to be a strategic move aimed at DPP President Mutharika, who is eyeing the presidency in 2025 despite being above the proposed age limit.

MANEPO Executive Director, Andrew Kavala argues; “the Bill is a direct infringement on the elderly’s rights, poorly timed, coming just six months before the general elections, and that it may destabilize the country”.

However, as the debate around the Age Limit Bill continues, one thing is clear: the outcome will have significant implications for Malawi’s democracy and the future of its leadership.