Mchinji businessman and farmer Stephen Kamwani has emerged winner in the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) primary elections ahead of the Mchinji West Parliamentary by-election to be held in October this year.

Kamwani beat two other contestants Vincent Kanyangala and a Mr Gulule with 714 votes during the elections which were held at Kathyuka School ground Saturday in Traditional Authority Simphasi in the district.

The party’s Secretary General Ecklen Kudontoni who presided over the election with Minister of Gender Jean Kalirani, told Malawi News agency (MANA) that the primary election was conducted in a free and fair manner.

“Members from area and constituency committees voted during the primaries and Kamwani emerged winner.

“We are optimistic that our candidate will win during the by-election and as a party, we will give him all the support that he needs,” Kudontoni said.
He said the party researched before the elections and Kamwani was a popular candidate among all the contestants.

In an interview, the DPP shadow MP for Mchinji West said he was delighted that the area and constituency committees have entrusted him to represent the ruling party in the by-elections.

“I have plans to develop the health sector in Mchinji West; and the district hospital lacks crucial facilities such as x-ray machines and a good kitchen. I would ensure that these problems which are affecting the smooth running of the hospital are addressed when I am elected,” said Kamwani.

Kamwani also said if elected, he would address water shortage which is a big problem in the district.

Mchinji West constituency fell vacant after the death of former MCP parliamentarian Billy Kanjira Banda who died in March this year, after collapsing in church.

Kamwani will compete with Malawi Congress Party (MP) candidate Jephther Mwale, a former teacher.