Malawi vote "anulled" by Banda

Malawi's President Joyce Banda called for a new vote after announcing on Saturday that she had nullified the recent presidential election because of alleged "irregularities."

However, a judge ruled that her instruction to hold a fresh vote within 90 days was invalid.

High Court judge, Kenyatta Nyirenda, said he had granted a stay order against the presidential proclamation, allowing vote-counting to proceed.

"She does not have powers under the Constitution to stop the elections," he said.

The court's decision means Tuesday's vote will be valid unless Banda obtains an injunction nullifying the election.

Banda said earlier on Saturday that she was using presidential powers "in the interest of the nation" to stop the vote count.

"There are so many irregularities as regards this election. I have been receiving phone calls from Malawians who are equally concerned with the way this election has been handled," Banda said at a press briefing.

"It is for this reason that I am directing the Malawi Electoral Commission to stop vote-counting immediately."

However, the head of the commission, Maxon Mbendera, urged electoral staff to continue working to complete the vote count.

Banda out of the presidential race

Banda was Malawi's vice president and came to power in 2012 following the death of President Bingu wa Mutharika.

Mutharika's brother, Peter, was one of Banda's main contenders in the election.

Some of his supporters attacked shops and vehicles in the capital, Lilongwe, after she announced that Tuesday's poll should be anulled.

Banda also said she would drop out of any new race for Malawi's leadership.

"Malawians should elect a leader of their choice, but I will not take part in those elections," she said.

lw/tj (AP, dpa)