Major western donor nations on Monday warned President Bakili Muluzi of Malawi to think twice before considering a controversial amendment to the constitution that would allow him to stand for a third term.
”We would again strongly urge that such an important constitutional amendment be considered only after a consultation process that encourages the free expression of views by all interested Malawians, without fear of intimidation or retribution, and in accordance with democratic principles,” a joint statement said.
The statement was released in Lilongwe, the administrative capital of Malawi, by the mission of the European Union and the embassies of Britain, Germany, Norway and the United States.
Donors bankroll up to 80% of the impoverished southern African nation’s development budget.
The bill was initially rejected in July by parliament, and Muluzi conceded defeat, saying he would accept the parliamentary ruling.
However, the bill allowing sitting presidents to stand for three consecutive terms, was gazetted early this month and is set to be tabled in parliament next month.
The donors said they noted with ”regret” that the tabling of the bill had increased tensions within Malawian society, ”resulting in a ban on demonstrations, increases in the level of intimidation and political violence and allegations of corruption.”
”We encourage all those involved in Malawi’s democratic development to play their part in curbing political violence and intimidation and call on the government and the law enforcers to act appropriately and impartially against any and all reports of such violence and intimidation,” the statement said.
If passed, the bill will allow Muluzi to stand for a third term after his current term expires in 2004. – Sapa-AFP