Malawi Councilor Eyes Parliamentary Seat in Chikwawa East
Political tensions are rising ahead of the ballot with allegations of violence, harassment and lack of intra-party democracy surrounding the nomination processes of various parties.
CHIKWAWA, Malawi— The councilor for Makhwira North ward in Malawi's Chikwawa district, Ziggie Alex Mlonya, has announced his ambition to contest the parliamentary seat for Chikwawa East constituency in next year's tripartite elections, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
Mlonya, from the Democratic Progressive Party, told AfricaBrief on Tuesday that his constituents have been urging him to run for the parliamentary position due to the development projects he has implemented in the ward during his term as councilor.
"People are satisfied with the developments I have done in the ward and they want me to extend to the whole constituency," Mlonya alleged.
However, one Chikwawa East resident, Grace Lampiyao of Mitondo Trading Centre, challenged Mlonya's plans.
She noted the incumbent Member of Parliament for the area is Rodrick Khumbanyiwa from the United Democratic Front party.
Lampiyao said Khumbanyiwa faces no challengers from his area stretching from Livunzu to Masenjere due to his good relationship with constituents.
But she said in Mlonya's area between the Mwamphanzi and Livunzu rivers, several people are eyeing the parliamentary seat, which could split votes.
"We have been seeing this for the past elections which gives Khumbanyiwa an added advantage to be retaining his position for times," Lampiyao told AfricaBrief.
The tripartite elections for president, members of parliament and local government councilors in Malawi are scheduled for Sept. 16, 2025.
The poll will provide an key test for the current Tonse Alliance administration led by President Lazarus Chakwera.
Political tensions are rising ahead of the ballot with allegations of violence, harassment and lack of intra-party democracy surrounding the nomination processes of various parties.