The Judiciary on Tuesday held a training on Electoral Dispute Resolution for Justices of the Supreme Court of Appeal and Judges of the High Court.
In his keynote address, Chief Justice of the Republic of Malawi, Rizine Robert Mzikamanda SC, reminded the Honourable Justices of the emotive nature of elections. “As such, electoral dispute resolution must be handled with heightened care, independently and impartially with regard only to legally relevant facts and prescriptions of law. Speed and accuracy in such handling are of essence,” said Chief Justice Mzikamanda.
Speaking earlier, Chairperson of the Malawi Judiciary Training Committee, Honourable Justice Violet Chipao, highlighted that the training seeks to provide a platform for participants to reflect on practical experiences in managing election-related cases, drawing insights from local contexts and prior elections.
“The training will help participants apply best practices in the management of electoral cases, especially in handling motions, recusals, and other procedural matters. It will also enhance their skills in handling electoral offences to ensure effective justice delivery in electoral contexts,” added Justice Chipao.
The training was held with financial assistance from the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC). MEC Chairperson, Justice Annabel Mtalimanja, acknowledged that as much as the Commission has the responsibility to determine electoral petitions and complaints related to the conduct of any election, and to ensure compliance with the Law, it cannot and neither should it seek to resolve all electoral disputes on its own.
She added that the Commission cannot pretend that it has the mandate to resolve all disputes relating to elections. “Electoral dispute resolution is a multifaceted and shared responsibility and it is in this context that the role of the Judiciary becomes paramount and indispensable,” said Justice Mtalimanja.
Facilitations among others, included personal experiences shared by Justices of the Supreme Court of Appeal and of the High Court.
- 28 views