IN a move that opens up the race to stiff competition, Malawi’s Electoral Commission has withdrawn its appeal case against a High Court decision allowing two leading opposition party leaders to contest the June 15 presidential elections as running mates. The withdrawal of the appeal case means incumbent President Bakili Muluzi faces a tougher election against the combined opposition force of Malawi Congress Party leader Gwanda Chakuamba and Alliance for Democracy’s Chakufwa Chihana, who will run on one ticket as President and Vice-President respectively. The Electoral Commission had earlier in the year, blocked the Chakuamba and Chihana from running on one ticket, saying the ballots could not accommodate two parties’ or candidates symbols.