MEC appeals for peaceful campaign
Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has appealed for a peaceful campaign ahead of the March 30 by-election in Karonga North West Constituency.
MEC Commissioner Anthony Mukumbwa made the call on Monday when candidates presented nomination papers at Maghemo Secondary School hall in the area.
He said MEC expects political parties and candidates to avoid the use of foul language during campaign.
Said Mukumbwa: “Do not incite political violence during campaign.
“Candidates should remember that democracy without peace is meaningless.”
But the splendour and pomp that characterised the event violated Covid-19 preventive measures, especially restrictions on public gatherings as candidates were escorted by truckloads of supporters who did not wear face masks.
After presenting their nomination papers, candidates for Malawi Congress Party Daniel Mwanyongo, UTM Party Katwafu Kayira, Democratic Progress Party Lusubilo Kamwambi and Alliance for Democracy Fwasani Silungwe brought Karonga Town to a standstill as they paraded to woo voters.
Other candidates who presented their nomination papers in the constituency were Promise Kaunda of Leadership with Compassion Party, Kasunga Mwenindeka of United Democratic Front and three independent candidates, namely Harry Mwanyembe, Shawo Mwakilama and Anderson Mwayipinga.
Speaking after presenting their nomination papers, the candidates pledged to improve the area by implementing projects such as constructing feeder road networks and health facilities and revamping agriculture.
About 51 000 voters are expected to vote on March 30. The seat fell vacant after the death of James Kamwambi (DPP) last month.
