Mangochi Diocese Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP) has urged stakeholders to begin preparations for local government by-elections in Mikongo Ward in Mangochi North East Constituency.
The election in the ward did not take place on September 16 2025 following the death of Malawi Congress Party (MCP) candidate Allan Jemusi who died in a motorcycle accident on Lingamasa Road on August 28 2025.
The incident prompted the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) to postpone the election.
CCJP project officer Gasiano Nicholas said during a mobilisation meeting held in Traditional Authority (T/A) Chowe that they are concerned with raising awareness among citizens to enable them participate meaningfully in electing leaders who can drive development in the area.
“This is the reason we engaged the electorate early to inform them the importance of the by-election as we await MEC to announce the official election date,” he said.
Nicholas described ward councillors as key drivers of grassroots development as they live with the people and take their needs to the council.
National Initiative for Civic Education Trust programme officer Joseph Chamambala, who accompanied CCJP to the mobilisation campaign, said the September 16 2025 General Election was marred by challenges such as network problems, high numbers of void votes and low voter turnout.
“Since this is a smaller election, stakeholders, including MEC, must work together to address these challenges,” he said.
Group village head Mtuwa said the campaign will motivate community members to take the by-election seriously.
Faida Issa, a prospective voter, said the awareness campaign changed her perception of local government elections, which she previously considered less important.
The United Nations Development Programme supported the mobilisation campaign
