There are mixed reactions on the appointment of Andrew Mpesi as Chief Elections Officer for the Malawi Electoral commission.
So far, the opposition, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has said it is surprised with appointment of Mpesi on the role.
This follows the confirmation of Mpesi by MEC after he emerged successful during interview conducted by the commission.
The position fell vacant following resignation of Sam Alfandika in April, 2021.
Speaking to MIJ Online, Chimwemwe Chipungu, national organizing secretary for DPP- said the party is surprised because the person is a deep rooted MCP supporter.
Chipungu said as Malawians not just DPP- they are concerned since there is an election coming in 2025, saying this is a strategy to disrupt a democratic election that is coming.
However, Yusuf Mwawa, acting publicity secretary for United Democratic Front- UDF – said the party expects that the new MEC CEO will be working towards making sure that the electoral commission is impartial in its activities.
Mwawa said the party believe that Mpesi is a right person to be on the position.
In an earlier interview, Boniface Chibwana- Vice Chairperson for Malawi Elections Support Network urged Mpesi to champion the implementation of reforms of electoral laws.
Chibwana said Mpesi should treat the electoral reforms as a priority as the country prepares for the 2025 elections.
Mpesi, holds a Master of Arts degree in political science, a Bachelor of Arts degree in public administration and a postgraduate diploma in health systems management.
Before his appointment, he worked for the United States Agency for International Development Malawi office as a governance specialist responsible for elections and parliamentary portfolio.