The Supreme Court of Appeal has today dismissed an application for appeal by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) challenging a High Court order of September 29 2023 for the party to hold an elective conference within 90 days.

The DPP wanted a stay of the implementation of the ruling by Judge Simeon Mdeza pending appeal, but a copy of the ruling made in the chamber’s in Blantyre by Justice Rowland Mbvundula states that the lower court only adjourned the matter and did not refuse or dismiss the application by the DPP.

The development means the opposition DPP will hold its elective conference on December 26 and 27 as per resolution of the National Governing Council (NGC) meeting held today.

Former President Peter Mutharika has since declared his interest to contest as President of the party.

Mutharika is scheduled to face former DPP Vice President for the South Kondwani Nakhumwani.