Kaomba calls for peaceful by-elections
Senior chief Kaomba of Kasungu District has called on political players and stakeholders in the forthcoming by-elections to ensure that the process is conducted in a peaceful manner.
Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) will on November 1 this year conduct a parliamentary by-election in Mchinji West constituency and local government polls in Kaliyeka Ward in Lilongwe City South East, Bunda Ward in Kasungu Central, Sadzi in Zomba Central and Bembeke in Dedza South.
Speaking during the launch of electoral activities in Bunda Ward in Kasungu, Kaomba called for an issue-based campaign, saying intimidation and violence scare away voters.
“We should ensure that there is no violence. Let the best candidates win and help in facilitating development in their respective areas,” he said.
National Initiative for Civic Education (Nice) Trust regional civic education officer for the North, Vincent Kalawa, said history shows that many people do not take part in by-elections.
“We will conduct mobilisation campaigns to ensure a large turnout in all the election stages, beginning with registration and verification of names,” he said.
MEC Commissioner the Reverend Killion M’gawi, who presided over the launch, called on the electorate to follow the electoral calendar and take part in the polls.
Kasungu Municipality mayor
Ireen Katola said only peaceful elections can be described as free and fair. n
