The Malawi Electoral Commission (MEC) has released results of the Local by-elections that were held on Tuesday 25, 2015 in five wards.

The by-elections were held in five wards: Luchenza Ward, Zomba Central Ward, Mangochi Msikiti Ward, Chibanja Ward and Khwawa Ward.

Out of the five wards, the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has managed to grab three seats which are Khwawa ward in Karonga worn by Bydon Msiska, Zomba central Ward worn by Melia Likoswe and Luncheza ward which has gone Henderson Supuni.

Opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP) has managed to grab one seat in Chibanja ward in Mzuzu City and the seat has gone to Charles Mlogera while the other seat which is Mangochi Msikiti Ward has gone to United Democratic Front (UDF).

Announcing the results on Wednesday afternoon, MEC Chairperson Maxon Mbendera declared the elections as free, fair and credible.

Mbendera, however admitted of voter apathy in the by-elections, saying average voter turnout was 25.87 percent.

On his part, Opposition People’s Party (PP) spokesperson Ken Msonda trashed the outcome of the by-elections, saying numerous irregularities marred the by-elections.

Msonda pointed out Khwawa ward in Kalonga South, saying the playing field was not level accusing DPP of intimidating the opposition.