President Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, who is also the leader of the Malawi Congress Party (MCP), and First Lady Madame Monica Chakwera this morning cast their votes at Malembo Primary School in Lilongwe-Chilobwe Constituency, their home area.
Lilongwe-Chilobwe stands out as the only constituency in the country where the MCP Member of Parliament, Lawrence Chakakala Chaziya, and the Nyang’amile Ward Councillor went unopposed. The constituency has a total of 58,000 registered voters.
Across Malawi, citizens are turning out in large numbers to elect the President, Members of Parliament, and Councillors in what is being described as a crucial election.
Former President Dr. Joyce Banda, contesting under the People’s Party (PP) banner, also cast her vote on Tuesday at Malemia Primary School in Zomba Malosa Constituency. She was accompanied by former First Gentleman Justice Richard Banda and her daughter Edith Kachale, who is contesting for the parliamentary seat in the same area.
Dr. Banda appealed for calm and unity during the election period. “We had a peaceful campaign and let us continue to maintain peace as we vote and wait for the results from today onwards. After all this is done, we remain Malawian,” she said, while commending her supporters for their commitment to peace.
In Thyolo, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika voted at Goliati Primary School. The former president, accompanied by his wife Gertrude Mutharika and senior party officials, was warmly welcomed by supporters at the polling station.
Speaking after casting his ballot, Mutharika described the election as an opportunity for Malawians to make their voices heard. “Elections come once every five years, and they should not divide us. This is the time for Malawians to make a choice based on the past five years. I urge all undecided voters to exercise their right today,” he said.
With 2,348 polling centres open across the country, the Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has assured the public of smooth proceedings. Stakeholders are urging all citizens to remain peaceful as the nation awaits the outcome of today’s polls.
