Ahead of its 2019 elections, Malawi has passed a law preventing politicians from using cash payments and other forms of incentives to lobby for support and votes from the voting populace.

The law, which exempts leaflets, clothing and posters from its punishable offences, has been tagged: “The Political Parties Act.”

Prior to the new law, Malawian politicians have been known to use various forms of financial manipulation during elections, ranging from direct cash payments to gifts offered to voters and traditional leaders in a bid to solicit for votes.

The News Agency of Nigeria reported that the University of Malawi political scientist, Henry Chingaipe, told AFP that the new law will help clean up politics.

“We have propagated a culture of patrimonial politics through handouts,” he said.

“Instead of people voting out of conscience, you are essentially buying their vote.”

Signed into law on Saturday, the bill sets a fine of up to $13,600 or a five year prison term for candidates who are found guilty of vote buying or any form of financial manipulation to garner support during the elections.

Speaking on the law and what it means for the campaign process ahead of the polls, President Peter Mutharika’s Democratic Progressive Party, has announced its decision to adhere to the new law as it has various legislative decisions before this.

Mutharika is set to go head to head with the former head of state, Joyce Banda who is running under the People’s Party. Banda is also ready to work in tandem with the law and a party spokesman reportedly said: “We have to follow what it says.”

Also joining in the race, the United Transformation Movement (UTM) led by Vice President Saulos Chillima, who broke ranks with Mutharika, has expressed his commitment to obeying the law reiterating the need for candidates to be voted for based on their characters and ideas for development as opposed to their financial capabilities.