Political parties that contested in the August 23 Local Government By-elections have expressed different perspectives on the outcome.

Malawi Electoral Commission held by-elections in Chitipa Wenya Ward, Lupembe Ward in Karonga and Shire Ward in Balaka.

Malawi Congress Party (MCP) retained Wenya Ward and gained Lupembe Ward which was previously held by the Alliance for Democracy while the United Democratic Front (UDF) retained Shire Ward.

Reacting to the results in an interview on Wednesday, UDF spokesperson Yusuf Mwawa said the party was determined to retain and gain more seats both in its Eastern Region base and other constituencies.

An elderly woman in Balaka processes her ballot from a polling booth deliberately collapsed for her convenience

He said: “Despite our poor showing in similar elections, this time under the new leadership of Lillian Patel, the party is determined to protect its seats and reset its quest to win more parliamentary and local government elections.”

UTM Party spokesperson Frank Mwenifumbo acknowledged the party’s defeat in the by-elections, saying: “We extend our hearty congratulations to all the winning candidates and wish them the very best as they discharge their duties.”

On the other hand, MCP spokesperson the Reverend Maurice Munthali said his party will strive to deliver on its promises so that it moves with the masses till 2025 when it expects to win at all levels.

However, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) national organising secretary Chimwemwe Chipungu said the party is in a rebuilding process and they hope they will retain their seats and bounce back into government.

DPP fielded candidates in all the wards.

The post Parties react to by-election results appeared first on The Nation Online.