MEC Threatens to Call off By-Elections in Karonga If Violence Persist

The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has threatened to call off by-elections in Karonga Central Constituency due to increased cases of violence among supporters of the main two candidates.

MEC Chairperson Chifundo Kachale said this in a press statement seen by Face of Malawi of Malawi.

According to Kachale, if the cases of violence will continue, calling off the by-elections will be a good idea arguing that lives and property of people will be protected.

“The Commission is warning all the candidates, political parties and the electorate in the constituency that if acts of violence and intimidation persist, it will have no choice but to call off the by-election to protect lives and property,” said Kachale.

There have been reports of violence in Karonga Central Constituency from supporters of Malawi Congress Party (MCP) and United Transformation Movement (UTM).

In his remarks, Kachale pleaded with the two candidates Leornad Mwalwanda of MCP and Frank Mwenifumbo of UTM to campaign peacefully and asked their supporters from perpetrating violence.

Karonga Central Constituency fell vacant of Member of Parliament following the death of Cornelius Mwalwanda who died from Covid-19.

Meanwhile, by-elections are expected to take place on November 9, 2020.