By Jones Gadama
BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Esther Mcheka Chilenje, former Deputy Speaker of Parliament, has withdrawn from the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) primary elections rerun scheduled for June 15, 2025, in Nsanje North Constituency.
In a letter addressed to the party’s Director of Elections, Chilenje cited alleged violence perpetrated by her opponents as the reason for her withdrawal.
Chilenje emphasized that her decision is motivated by the desire to maintain unity within the party. “I have withdrawn for the sake of unity within the party, and I will support the candidate who emerges victorious,” she said.
This development leaves the field open to other candidates, including Enock Chizuzu and Rose Makiyi, who garnered 798 and 415 votes, respectively, in the previous elections.
The MCP primary elections have faced challenges, with allegations of irregularities and disputes in various constituencies. Chilenje’s withdrawal highlights the need for the party to address these issues and ensure a smooth electoral process.
The outcome of the rerun elections will be crucial in determining the MCP’s representation in the constituency.
With Chilenje’s withdrawal, the focus shifts to the remaining candidates and their ability to rally support from party loyalists.
