The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has officially launched the Ighembe Ward by-elections in Karonga District, calling on aspiring candidates to conduct peaceful campaigns and avoid language or actions that may incite violence.
Speaking during the launch, MEC Commissioner Caroline Mfune warned candidates contesting for the councillor position against issuing handouts or using public resources for campaign purposes.
“Electoral laws do not permit candidates to distribute handouts or use public funds for campaigning. Any candidate found engaging in such practices will face the law accordingly,” Mfune said.
She added that voter registration will run for seven days from January 31 to February 6, 2026 and voter transfer will not be allowed during the by-election.
The commissioner further said candidates will collect nomination papers from January 20 to February 20, 2026, while presentation of nomination papers will take place on February 21, 2026.
Mfune also outlined the nomination fees, stating that male candidates are required to pay K200,000, while women, youths, and persons with disabilities will pay K100,000.
In his remarks, Karonga District Commissioner Willard Mwambo echoed the call for peaceful campaigning, warning against electoral malpractices that could threaten peace and stability in the district.
The Ighembe Ward by-elections follow the omission of some candidates’ names on ballot papers during the September 2025 General Elections, which prompted MEC to organize a fresh poll.
The campaign period runs from 15 January 2026 to 15 March 2026, with voting scheduled for 17 March 2026.
By Wakisa Myamba
