Malawi: Constitution changes could strengthen Mutharika

The possible revision of a law that forbids Malawi's members of parliament from crossing the floor could help strengthen President Bingu wa Mutharika, who has been locked in a gruelling battle with his opposition. Changing Section 65 of the constitution was proposed by Mutharika, who argued that it contradicted freedom of association, which is also guaranteed. "The review of the constitution should assess the rights of individuals to belong to an association of their choice, and not to be forced to belong to a political party," he remarked at a recently concluded conference to examine the issue.