27/05/2019 (Agence Europe) – Malawi's judiciary demanded on 25 May that the electoral commission suspend the announcement of the results of the 21 May presidential election observed by the EU (see EUROPE 12232/28). The reason for this is allegations of fraud. The day before, the EU had welcomed “the active turnout of Malawians” and the elections “generally well organised and calm”, according to the preliminary conclusions of its observation mission. However, it considered it “essential that the CEM finalise the results process in a transparent manner and that all stakeholders support the CEM by ensuring that the entire electoral process, including the handling of complaints, can follow its course, within the appropriate legal framework”. It pointed out, as weaknesses to be corrected in the future, “allegations of misuse of State resources [...], the treatment of women candidates and irresponsible and provocative statements by candidates”. (AN)