MEC calls for peaceful campaign

Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has urged candidates contesting in Ntchisi North Constituency by-election to refrain from violence during campaign.

The commission’s deputy chief elections officer  (electoral services) Harris Potani said this on Monday at Malomo Teacher Development Centre in Ntchisi when he received nomination papers from candidates.

He also advised candidates to share in good time their campaign meeting schedules with the Commission through the district commissioner’s office.

“This will help to avoid clashes at venues by different candidates,” said Potani.

In a separate interview yesterday, the constituency’s returning officer Wellington Kafwapa said a free and fair election is possible when stakeholders  work together and adhere to electoral rules.

“Let us work together to make the results credible,” he said.

MEC regional elections officer  (Centre) Kate Mjojo reminded the contestants that the by-election will be held amid the Covid-19 pandemic; hence, the need for them to ensure that their supporters observe the preventive measures.

“Ensure that people attending your campaign meetings are wearing masks and observing social distancing,” she said.

Three candidates have presented their nomination papers to MEC to contest in the March 30 by-election in the constituency.

They are Arnold William Kadzanja of Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Kesinalakwiyo Mambeya of Democratic Progressive Party and Maurice M’bang’ombe (independent).

Ntchisi North Constituency fell vacant following the death of legislator Jacqueline Chikuta (MCP) on January 27 this year.