Political tension in the country has forced President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika to shun official opening of the 31st International Trade Fair at Chichiri Trade Fair Ground in the commercial capital Blantyre.

This is the first time in the country’s history for the Head of State to shun the opening of Trade Fair.

State House Press Officer Mgeme Kalilani confirmed of the development in an interview with the press, saying Mutharika is today scheduled to attend to urgent matters.

Malawi Confederation Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI) Spokesperson, Milly Kasunda also confirmed of the development in separate interview.

But Kasunda could not comment on the reason as to why Mutharika will not available for the opening of Trade Fair.

The 31st Trade Fair was scheduled to take place from June 20th to June 30th but was postpone to August 8 2019 due to the ongoing demonstrations aimed at forcing Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) Chairperson Dr. Jane Ansah to resign for failing to manage the May 21 tripartite election.

Meanwhile Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and United Transformation Movement (UTM) have dragged MEC to court seeking nullification of the Presidential polls.