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(NYASATIMES) Malawi’s ruling DPP ‘crushed’ in key by-election

Malawi’s ruling DPP ‘crushed’ in key by-election
By Nyasa Times
Published: August 15, 2009

Malawi President Bingu wa Mutharika’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) lost a key by-election in Blantyre City Central constituency, according to results announced.

By-elections were held in Blantyre city central which is regarded as Malawi’s political barometer and Zomba Malosa constituency.

According to results confirmed by Malawi Electoral Commission, independent candidate Eunice Makangala has emerged an outright winner in the by-elections beating DPP’s Themba Mkandawire, former sitting MP Gift Mwamondwe.

“The people have spoken and it is with joy and humility that I accept their trust,” Makangala told Nyasa Times after being briefed about the results.

Thousands of people in squatter township of Ndirande erupted to a midnight street celebrations.

The by-elections were held after people failed to vote in the May 19 polls as one candidate died.

Opposition UDF’s candidate Ernest Maganga withdrew from the race after being lured to join the DPP.

Chief Elections Officer, David Bandawe described the elections as peaceful, free and fair.

In another by-election in Zomba –Malosa a constituency which was won by DPP’s Joyce Banda and had to hold a re-run following her election as Malawi’s deputy president, DPP was expected to win.

Labels: BINGU WA MUTHARIKA, BY-ELECTIONS, DPP, MALAWI

posted by MrK @ 3:20 PM